James Murray
A man who downloaded almost 24,000 indecent images of children has been jailed for two years and nine months.
James Murray, 42 and of Bournemouth, pleaded guilty to 10 offences, including one of possessing indecent images of children, six of making indecent images of children, two counts of voyeurism and another of possessing extreme pornography. He was sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court on Friday 5 February.
The court heard that on Thursday 15 October 2015, officers from Dorset Police’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT) executed a warrant at Murray’s home address and discovered a large collection of indecent images of children on a number of hard drives.
In interview with officers he also admitted to covertly filming a number of women and a child. These were also discovered in his collection.
In total, his computers held 22,592 category C, 295 category B and 750 category A indecent images of children, with category A being the most serious.
Detective Constable Wendy Stout, of POLIT, said: “James Murray downloaded thousands of sickening images of child abuse and also surreptitiously filmed women and a child for his own gratification.
“I hope this case will serve as a warning that Dorset Police will actively investigate anyone involved in downloading or producing indecent images of children.
“We will track you, we will arrest you and you will be brought to justice.
“I also urge those abusing children to seek professional help from either their GP or another professional organisation such as Stop it Now! of the Lucy Faithfull Foundation.
“Targeting criminals in cyber space and safeguarding children from serious harm remains a priority for Dorset Police.”
The Paedophile Online Investigation Team can be contacted on 101. In an emergency always dial 999. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.
For more information visit:
UK safer internet centre website. www.saferinternet.org.uk
Child Exploitation and Online Protection centre. www.ceop.police.uk
CEOP resources suitable for parents and children of different ages. www.thinkuknow.co.uk
www.stopitnow.org.uk
