A paedophile has been handed community service and an order to sign the sex offenders’ register for making and possessing child pornography.
Julian Timothy Darch, from Salisbury, but now living in Wood Lane, Chippenham, pleaded guilty to 10 counts of making and possessing illegal images of children.
He was sentenced at Swindon Magistrates Court today, Tuesday 22 August.
Officers leading the investigation into Darch found almost 100 indecent images on Darch’s electronic devices – some of which were described as Category A images – deemed as the most severe type of images.
Detective Constable Sarah Cearns said: “Darch was found to have a large number of indecent images on his computers – some of these are described as the most serious and graphic images and videos when categorised.
“Wiltshire Police is committed to ensuring justice is served for the victims of any sexual abuse and will always carry out a thorough investigation to ensure the perpetrators are put before the courts. All victims are provided with the support, advice and guidance required by trained professionals.
“We would encourage anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse in any form to contact police, regardless of how much time has passed since.
“You can speak to us via 101 or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.
“Victims can also seek support and counselling from the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) based at the New Swindon Sanctuary.”
Darch was also ordered to pay a fine of £250, a victim surcharge of £85 and Crown Prosecution Costs of £85. His name will remain on the Sex Offenders Register for five years.
