A NORTH Cumbria man has been given a suspended prison sentence for making indecent images of children.
John George Ritson’s offending came to light after police visited his Newton Arlosh home last February and seized a computer tower
Ritson, a 40-year-old man of previous good character, was sentenced at Carlisle Crown Court today (WED).
He had previously admitted making indecent photographs of children – 17 category A, the most serious, and three category C, between January 1 of 2017, and February 6 last year.
He was said to have committed the offences at a time when he was drinking excessively and suffering from depression.
Judge James Adkin said descriptions of the illegal images suggested they were “utterly repellent”, but concluded Ritson should be monitored in the community.
A 12-month prison sentence was suspended for two years. Ritson, who must also complete rehabilitation and 150 hours’ unpaid work, must sign the sex offenders’ register and abide by the strict terms of a sexual harm prevention order – both for 10 years.
Detective Sergeant James Bailey, of the force’s digital media investigation unit, said: “Our officers in this unit specialise in catching those who are committing these crimes – and Ritson is the latest to face prosecution for his actions.
“We will do everything in our power to bring those committing these offences to justice.
“We encourage anyone who has any suspicions of anything of this nature to contact us on 101.”
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.
