WILSON HUNT FROM MALVERN SENTENCED FOR CHILD INDECENT IMAGES IN WORCESTER

In July 2017, Wilson Hunt, a resident of Malvern, was sentenced in Worcester Crown Court after admitting to possessing and downloading highly disturbing images of children being sexually abused. The case revealed the disturbing extent of Hunt's actions, which involved the collection of indecent images depicting children as young as five years old.

Police executed a search warrant at Hunt's residence on Hilton Road, Malvern, on May 24 of the previous year. During the search, officers seized a computer that Hunt had used. Forensic analysis uncovered a cache of indecent images downloaded over a period of five months in 2016. These images were stored in a folder ominously titled the 'Lolita collection,' with filenames such as 'little girl pain,' highlighting the disturbing nature of the material.

Prosecutor Andrew Baker detailed that Hunt's then-partner had previously informed authorities that Hunt had viewed indecent thumbnail images on a computer that was no longer operational. Police managed to recover this device, which led to the discovery of additional indecent images dating back to 2008. The investigation revealed that Hunt had amassed more than 200 images and videos classified as Category A, the most severe classification for such material. There were also images categorized as B and C, indicating a range of severity.

Mr. Baker emphasized that Hunt had actively searched for and viewed this material over a significant period, making it clear that his actions were deliberate rather than accidental. Importantly, there was no evidence to suggest that Hunt had disseminated the images to others. The evidence indicated a pattern of ongoing interest and possession rather than distribution.

Hunt, aged 33 and a stone mason now residing on Laurel Lane, Halesowen, had no prior convictions related to the production of indecent images. However, he had a criminal history that included convictions for burglary, common assaults, criminal damage, public order offenses, obstructing police officers, and breaching court orders. Overall, Hunt had accumulated nine convictions for 32 previous offenses.

In sentencing, Judge Nicholas Cole imposed a sexual harm prevention order. This order restricts Hunt from using any internet-enabled device unless it can record and display his search history, which must be accessible to police upon request. He is also prohibited from encrypting any files and must inform authorities of any change in his circumstances for the next decade.

Furthermore, Hunt received a 15-month prison sentence, suspended for two years. He is required to complete 100 hours of unpaid community work, participate in a 40-day rehabilitation program, and undertake the Horizon program aimed at addressing offending behavior. Additionally, he was ordered to contribute £500 towards costs associated with the case. The computers seized during the search are to be destroyed, ensuring that the illegal material cannot be accessed again.

Overall, the case highlights the serious nature of Hunt's offenses and the judicial system's response aimed at both punishment and preventing future harm.