Joseph Thompson

A 20-year-old man from Shildon, County Durham, has admitted to serious child sex offences after police discovered a large cache of indecent images on his devices. Joseph Thompson, formerly of Spennymoor, pleaded guilty at Peterlee Magistrates' Court to three counts each of making and distributing indecent images of children, as well as one count of possessing extreme pornography.

The court heard that in September 2023, officers from Durham Constabulary attended Thompson's home in Spennymoor following intelligence about his online activities. Examination of seized electronic devices revealed 307 indecent images and videos of children, with 166 classified in the most severe category A. Of these, Thompson had distributed 62 images to four other individuals online, including 48 in category A. Additionally, the devices contained six extreme pornographic images depicting bestiality involving dogs.

Prosecutor James Gallagher outlined the grim details during the hearing, stating that the police had acted on 'relevant information' which led to the search. In mitigation, defence solicitor Stephen Andrews noted that Thompson had no previous convictions, describing him as having 'no relevant matters recorded against him'. Andrews requested a pre-sentence report from the Probation Service to provide the court with background on the defendant, emphasising that it would greatly assist in determining an appropriate sentence.

The magistrates committed the case to Durham Crown Court for sentencing on 6 February 2024. Thompson, now residing in Fir Tree, Shildon, was granted bail until then but was made subject to interim registration on the sex offenders' register, with the duration to be finalised at the hearing. The case highlights ongoing efforts by Durham Constabulary to combat the distribution of child abuse material online.