November 2021

Camelford paedophile’s sick collection included baby abuse

A paedophile was caught with hundreds of images of vulnerable children being abused – including babies.

Maximus Cordwell’s home was searched by police after an investigation by force officers and the National Crime Agency.

Cordwell, 25, from Camelford, appeared at Truro Crown Court to be sentenced having pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children.

Prosecuting the case, Katie Churcher described how Cordwell came to the attention of the authorities after his email address was linked to a KIK account that had uploaded a Category A image.

When Cordwell’s home was searched police seized a hard drive and Samsung phone which contained 289 Category A images, 76 Category B and 97 Category C. Some images were accessed in hidden folders.

Sentencing, Judge Anna Richardson said: “Police were made aware on April 7 last year of an active KIK account associated with your email that had accessed indecent images of children.

“When interviewed you accepted responsibility. There was particularly young children depicted in the abuse including babies. It was also clear some images were associated with familiar sex.

“The mitigating factors are that you have no previous convictions and have expressed remorse and showed understanding of the effect of these images on the victim.” Judge Richardson also noted the effect of the alleged abuse on Cordwell.

Cordwell was given a three year community order and must complete a rehabilitation activity requirement and relevant rehabilitation course.

He was also made subject of a sexual harm prevention order and must sign the sex offenders’ register.