Gary Oglesby

A man who stored and distributed images of children being sexually abused and beastiality images has avoided immediate prison — despite a judge warning that his offending helped sustain demand for abuse that causes victims “profound and lasting harm”.

Gary Oglesby, 67, of Anlaby Common, used phone apps to conceal indecent images, including a “Secret Photo Vault”, Hull Crown Court heard. His vile collection included abuse involving a boy aged between three and five.

Recorder Taryn Turner said his offending went “significantly beyond simple possession”.

Oglesby admitted six offences of making indecent images of children, alongside offences of distributing indecent images and possessing extreme pornography.

Police arrested him on July 18, 2024, after receiving information that an internet user had uploaded child abuse images and tracing a mobile phone linked to the account.

Investigators uncovered evidence of distribution through WhatsApp between March 2019 and March 2020.

The material distributed included Category A — the most serious classification —Category B & C images and extreme pornographic images involving bestiality.

Other devices contained indecent images dating from September 2009 to January 2010.

Recorder Turner said the children depicted had suffered real sexual abuse and exploitation. Every viewing and distribution perpetuated their suffering and helped sustain demand. She also highlighted that Oglesby had retained images over a lengthy period.

Oglesby received a suspended prison sentence of two years and eight months, with a probation requirement.

He was also given an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and must remain on the sex offenders register indefinitely.

People who distribute child sexual abuse images spread the recorded exploitation of real children. Every file shared means a child’s suffering is circulated again, stripping them of privacy and control over a record of their abuse.

These offenders help sustain networks built around sexual exploitation, allowing images of children’s worst experiences to be traded and viewed repeatedly. Behind every image is a child who deserved protection.