Roger Eggerton, 41, had denied all offences he was accused of, but was found guilty at trial of two charges – possessing eight indecent images of children of a Category C nature (Category A is the most serious) and possessing an extreme pornographic image involving sex with a horse.

Appearing at Caernarfon Crown Court on Monday (December 12) it was said that Eggerton, of Robin Square, Newtown, had been acquitted of other charges at his trial.

The two offences he was found guilty of occurred in Newtown between November 1, 2016, and June 30, 2018. Police arrested Eggerton and discovered images of children on his phone.

Prosecutor Robin Rouch said the phone was seized upon his arrest, with images of children as young as three found on his mobile.

Debra White, representing Eggerton, who has no previous offences recorded against him, said neither a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO), nor an order to destroy Eggerton’s phone, were opposed.

Judge Nicola Saffman told Eggerton: “You were found guilty of two matters, you had in your possession indecent images of children of a Category C nature and also an extreme pornographic image.

“You denied the offences and pleaded not guilty, but were found guilty at trial.

“The pre-sentence report indicates a suspended sentence with a community punishment or a high-level community order.

“The sentencing guidelines indicate a starting point of a high-level community order, up to 26 weeks in prison. I will impose a high-level community order.”

Eggerton was handed a two-year community order, which will include completing 60 rehabilitation activity requirement days as well as 45 days of an accredited sexual offending programme.

Judge Saffman added: “Probation raise the issue of a residency requirement, but I won’t impose it as the sexual harm prevention order will provide the necessary protection for any children.”

She said the sexual harm prevention order will last for five years and that a notification requirement – this requires Eggerton to inform police of any change of address, bank details or any foreign travel – will run alongside it.

“If you commit any new offence or breach this order you will be brought back and consideration will be given to imprisoning you for these matters,” added Judge Saffman.

She also ordered the forfeiture and destruction of the defendant’s phone and he must pay an £85 surcharge.