Amy Scott

A Darlington couple, Gavin Marsden and Amy Scott, have been jailed for a prolonged campaign of sickening child sex abuse that involved direct assaults on young children and the creation and possession of indecent images.

The depravity came to light in April 2023 when Scott began sending sexually explicit messages and videos to what she believed was a 14-year-old girl, unaware it was a decoy set up by a paedophile hunting group. Scott sent a video of herself performing a sex act and encouraged the 'girl' to reciprocate, before arranging to meet at Durham Railway Station. The couple was confronted by the group, who had alerted the police, leading to their immediate arrest.

Christine Egerton, prosecuting at Teesside Crown Court, detailed how a search of their home on Cobden Street, Darlington, uncovered numerous digital devices containing a shocking collection of child abuse material. Forensic examination revealed images and videos recorded by the pair themselves, alongside WhatsApp messages where Marsden urged Scott to perform sexual acts with very young children and photograph them. The abuse had spanned several years, affecting multiple victims.

Marsden, 31, and Scott, 32, pleaded guilty to charges including distribution and possession of indecent images of children, and attempting to engage in sexual behaviour with a child. Caroline McGurk, defending Marsden, described him as living in a 'fantasy land' with prior convictions for child sex offences, noting his ongoing sexual thoughts towards children and acceptance as a dangerous offender. Robert Mochrie, for Scott, attributed her actions to low intelligence and influence from Marsden.

Judge Chris Smith identified Marsden as the driving force, stating: 'An examination of digital devices seized after your arrest uncovered a shocking catalogue of child abuse committed by the pair of you over a long period of time.' He highlighted evidence of their hands-on involvement in abusing children and producing pornography. Scott received a 15-year sentence, comprising 11 years in custody and four years on extended licence. The case was handled by Durham Constabulary.