Whittlesey sex offender found with nearly 7,500 indecent images of children given community order

Robert Norman (36) had the images on his phone, laptop and a USB stick.

The images were found following a search on his home in Drybread Road, Whittlesey, on September 7, 2017.

The devices were found to contain 7,414 Category C images, 127 Category B images and 69 Category A images (the most severe).

Norman, who is already a registered sex offender, pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children and breach of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Today (Thursday, April 11) at Cambridge Crown Court he was sentenced to a three year community order, 60 days Rehabilitation Activity Requirement and five years on the SHPO.

DC Jacqueline Bremner said: “Tackling the making and distribution of indecent images is a priority for police across the country and this sentence shows there are consequences for those who view such images.”

An NSPCC spokesperson for the East of England said: “Norman viewed some of the most depraved images of children suffering despicable abuse that can have a long-lasting impact on their lives.

“By downloading these images offenders are fuelling a vile trade and it’s vital they undergo treatment to lessen the risk of reoffending.

“But the war on online child abuse images cannot be left up to the police and justice system alone. Internet providers and social networks must commit more resources to prevent this vile material being circulated in the first place.”

Anyone concerned about indecent images or the welfare of a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email [email protected].

The Lucy Faithfull Foundation said: “If you are concerned about what you are looking at online, or the online behaviour of someone you know, you can call the confidential and anonymous ‘Stop It Now’ helpline on 0808 1000 900 for advice, support and help to stop. Or visit https://get-help.stopitnow.org.uk/ to find out more.”