In 2019, the Offender Database recorded that Marc Burton, then 38, and John Harrison, then 32, were jailed for their roles in hosting an online conferencing room dedicated to the “horrific” abuse of children. On appearing at Newcastle Crown Court for sentencing, it was reported that the couple, who lived in Jarrow, South Tyneside, had distributed Category A content—the most severe classification showing the rape and torture of young children. The investigation established that during sessions in February 2016, the pair also discussed abusing infants while playing footage to other sex offenders.
The investigation established that Burton was arrested on 1 November 2017 at his home in Jarrow, South Tyneside. National Crime Agency (NCA) officers reported that a search of the property uncovered 1,974 indecent images and videos across various categories, alongside quantities of MDMA and cannabis resin. The prosecution reported that Harrison’s devices contained a further 1,779 images and videos. While Burton admitted his online offending was “wrong,” Harrison initially attempted to blame his partner before being confronted with video evidence of them both hosting the chatroom in South Tyneside.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
The court reported that the conferencing room was used for the playing of both pre-recorded and live child abuse material. Newcastle Crown Court heard how the NCA probe exposed a national network of offenders who used these digital spaces to encourage and assist in the distribution of “depraved” content. The prosecution reported that Burton admitted possession with intent to supply drugs found at the Jarrow address, while Harrison admitted simple possession alongside the sexual offences in South Tyneside.
The judge noted that the severity of the material and the “vile” discussions involving babies necessitated immediate custodial sentences. For their actions in Jarrow and South Tyneside, both men were told that their claims of the crimes being “only online” did not mitigate the harm caused to the victims depicted. The judge noted that the two-year and eight-month sentences, combined with lifelong registration, were required to reflect the “abhorrent” nature of their digital distribution hub.
Sentence and Statutory Requirements
For their crimes in England, Marc Burton and John Harrison were handed:
- Custodial Sentence: Two years and eight months in prison each.
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements were activated for life.
- SHPO: Both were given 15-year Sexual Harm Prevention Orders.
- Judicial Oversight: Sentenced at Newcastle Crown Court following guilty pleas.
- Criminal Record: Convicted of distributing Category A material and drug offences.
- Residence: Jarrow, South Tyneside.
Monitoring and Public Protection
The offenders are managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by Northumbria Police and the National Probation Service. Due to the “sophisticated and digital” nature of their offending in Jarrow, South Tyneside, their management is subject to the highest level of oversight by the Public Protection Unit.
As members of the Sex Offenders Register, both Burton and Harrison must comply with notification requirements regarding their identity and residence for the remainder of their lives. Authorities state that their history of hosting conferencing rooms for child abuse necessitates permanent and stringent monitoring of their internet access and digital devices. Any breach of their 15-year SHPOs, their life-long registration conditions, or further sexual misconduct in South Tyneside or elsewhere will result in immediate arrest and a return to the court system for a lengthier term of incarceration.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.