Ricky Bushell

Ricky Bushell, aged 60 from New Farm, Higher Worthyvale in Camelford, Cornwall, was sentenced at Cornwall Magistrates' Court for committing sexual offences by sharing private intimate images without consent. The offences occurred between July 20 and October 7, with specific incidents on September 25 at Llandudo in Wales, and another between the same dates at the same location.

Bushell was charged under section 66B(1) and (9) of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 for sharing a photograph or film of a person in an intimate state without their consent. This act is recognised as a serious breach of privacy and a form of non-consensual distribution of intimate material, often referred to as 'revenge porn'. The court heard details of the unauthorised sharing, which caused significant distress to the victim.

In addition to the sexual offences, Bushell faced a charge for failing to surrender to police or court bail on October 9 at Cheltenham Magistrates' Court, after being released on bail on October 7, 2025, at Compass House Custody Suite. This failure to appear compounded the severity of his case.

The magistrates imposed a community order on Bushell, including 25 days of rehabilitation activity and 200 hours of unpaid work. A restraining order was also issued, prohibiting him from contacting the victim or posting images or other information about her anywhere online. The sentencing reflects the court's aim to protect the victim and prevent further harm, while addressing Bushell's behaviour through rehabilitative measures rather than immediate custody.

This case was reported by Cornwall Live, based on proceedings at Bodmin and Truro Magistrates' Courts, where reporters attended as part of public oversight of the justice system. No direct quotes from the court were provided in the coverage, but the details underscore the ongoing issue of digital sexual offences in the UK.