Ex-marine downloaded over 1,000 indecent images of children.

Ex-Marine avoids jail after downloading over 1,000 child abuse images

John Oldroyd, 54, of Yorke Way, Hamble-le-Rice, was found to have downloaded over 1,000 indecent images of children over a seven-year period. Police raided his home after receiving a tip from a service provider. During the search, officers discovered a collection of indecent images, including 95 Category A files - the most serious category. They also found 112 Category B images and 845 Category C images.

Oldroyd, who served 15 years in the Royal Marines, appeared at Southampton Crown Court and was charged with three counts of making indecent photographs of a child. He pleaded guilty to the offenses, which were committed between 2013 and 2020.

Prosecutor James Kellam informed the court that the website used to obtain the images is notorious but refused to name it. He requested the destruction of the two computers and hard drives, stating it is crucial to dispose of them.

Defense barrister Laura Hollingberry emphasized Oldroyd's awareness of the impact his actions have on numerous child victims. She stated that since his arrest two years ago, he has sought professional help from a psychotherapist and described the past two years as the most difficult of his life.

The court learned that Oldroyd is a charitable man who works in a boat and yacht yard doing maintenance and also volunteers for charities.

Recorder Don Tait addressed Oldroyd, stating, "I'm sure if you didn't appreciate it before, you appreciate it now. This sort of offense is not a victimless offense by any means."

However, the judge also recognized Oldroyd's cooperation with the police by surrendering the devices as soon as they became aware of the images. He imposed an 18-month community order with up to 40 rehabilitation activity requirement days. Oldroyd was also issued a five-year sexual harm protection order.