Shetland Man Banned from Internet for Child Pornography

Dean Hughson, 20, from Sandwick, Shetland, has been banned from using the internet for three years after admitting to downloading child pornography.

Hughson pleaded guilty to charges of taking or making 237 indecent photographs and 27 moving pictures of children. He also admitted possessing 72 indecent images and nine moving pictures with the intention of distributing them.

The offences, which occurred between March 2003 and May 2005, came to light as part of a joint operation by European law enforcement agencies. Police raided Hughson's home and seized computer equipment from his bedroom.

Fiscal Stella Swan described the images as "a mixture of pre-pubescent and post-pubescent children, the majority involved in grossly indecent sexual acts."

Defence lawyer Tommy Allan acknowledged the seriousness of the offences, stating that computers "are another pitfall" for young people in today's society. He emphasized that Hughson was "not in denial" and was taking responsibility for his actions.

Sheriff Derek Pyle, in handing down the sentence, emphasized the court's "very serious view" of such matters. He described the images as "horrible" and the trade in child pornography as "disgusting."

In addition to the internet ban, Hughson was placed on probation for three years, ordered to complete 200 hours of community service, and required to participate in a sex offenders' program. He was also placed on the sex offenders' register for three years.

Hughson was prohibited from having contact with children under 16 without prior approval from his supervising officer.