Craig Scott Murfitt

Craig Scott Murfitt, a 30-year-old man from Bedale in North Yorkshire, has been sentenced to imprisonment for his involvement in possessing indecent images of children. This conviction represents his second offence related to such material, following a previous suspended sentence in 2016. The case was heard at Teesside Crown Court, where Murfitt pleaded guilty to two charges of possessing indecent images and one charge of breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).

The offences came to light during a routine monitoring visit by public protection officers, who were enforcing the SHPO imposed after Murfitt's earlier conviction. During this visit, officers seized his mobile phone and tablet for examination. Forensic analysis of the devices revealed further indecent images of children, confirming that Murfitt had violated the terms of his prevention order and continued to engage in prohibited activities.

In addition to his custodial sentence, Murfitt was issued with an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order to restrict his future behaviour and was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for a period of 10 years. This sentencing underscores the court's commitment to protecting children from exploitation through digital means.

Detective Constable Matthew Mitchell of the Northallerton Serious Crime Team commented on the case, stating: 'Sadly Murfitt did not learn from his previous sentence and has committed further offences for which he has now been jailed. For every indecent photograph, a child has suffered the worst kind of abuse imaginable. This sentence sends a clear message that you can’t hide behind a screen, the criminal justice system will not tolerate your part in fuelling the demand for these sickening images.' The investigation was conducted by North Yorkshire Police, highlighting their ongoing efforts to monitor and prosecute individuals involved in child sexual exploitation.

The article, published by the Yorkshire Post on 15 August 2017 and updated on 11 September 2017, emphasises the severity of repeat offences in this category and the importance of compliance with legal orders designed to prevent harm.