Registered sex offender who had hundreds of illegal images of children.

Sex Offender Sentenced for Possession and Distribution of Child Abuse Images

Ian Crockford, 52, of Stone Lane in Salvington, has been sentenced to three years in prison for possessing and distributing hundreds of illegal images of children. Crockford was previously jailed for child sex offences in 2019 and was subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) that restricted his access to digital devices and vulnerable people.

In March 2023, authorities received information indicating Crockford was in possession of further indecent images of children. A subsequent search of his mobile phone and computers revealed hundreds of indecent images, as well as evidence that he had shared illegal images and instructed another person on how to abuse a child.

Crockford was charged with six counts of making or distributing indecent images of a child, one count of publishing an obscene article, and breaching his SHPO. He pleaded guilty to all charges in December 2023.

While on bail awaiting sentencing, Crockford was found to have breached his bail conditions and committed further offences by obtaining a new mobile phone and attempting to sexually communicate with children. More indecent images were found on his device, leading to additional charges of making or distributing indecent images, publishing an obscene article, and another SHPO violation. He pleaded guilty to these charges as well.

At Lewes Crown Court on February 29, 2024, Crockford was sentenced to a total of three years in prison for all offenses.