Downloaded more than 18,000 indecent images of children during lockdown.

Ashman Downloaded Thousands of Child Abuse Images During Lockdown

Southampton Crown Court heard that 42-year-old Ashman, of Howard Road, Southampton, downloaded over 18,000 indecent images of children during the lockdown period.

Police discovered 140 category A images (the most severe type), 123 category B images, and 18,365 category C images of children on a single hard drive belonging to Ashman.

The court was told that some of the images depicted children in distress. Ashman later admitted to downloading the images, stating: "I did download some dodgy [stuff] during lockdown."

As a result of his actions, Ashman was sentenced to a three-year community order. He was also ordered to complete 15 rehabilitation activity days, 200 hours of unpaid work, and pay £300 in costs and a surcharge.

Ashman is now subject to a five-year sexual prevention order.