In 2019, the Offender Database recorded that James Close, 36, admitted to a “vicious” breach of trust by stealing 30 photographs of young girls from official documents. On appearing at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court, the defendant—of Central Parade, Shildon—pleaded guilty to theft from his employer, Her Majesty’s Passport Office in Durham, and several child sex offences. It was reported that between May and December 2018, Close used his position of authority to intercept the private images of children for his own “dark” purposes.
The investigation established the “sickening” nature of Close’s conduct within a government facility. Durham Constabulary reported that a warrant was served at his home in Shildon following intelligence regarding his digital activity. The prosecution reported that in addition to the stolen passport photos, Close was found in possession of indecent images of children and bestiality videos. The investigation established that Close was arrested at his workplace in Durham City, a location where he was entrusted with the security and privacy of the public.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
The court reported that Close’s crimes represented a major security breach and an abuse of professional responsibility. Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court heard that the theft of 30 photographs of girls was a calculated act carried out over several months. The investigation established that Close’s digital devices contained “vile” material that he had both possessed and made, leading to his case being sent to Durham Crown Court for sentencing due to the gravity of the offences.
Magistrates noted that the case involved both a “horrific” betrayal of his employer and a significant threat to the safety of the children whose images he targeted. For his actions in Durham, Close was bailed with strict conditions limiting his use of computers and the internet. The judge noted that the Home Office considered the matter an ongoing legal proceeding of the highest concern, given the “vile” nature of the evidence seized from Close’s residence.
Status and Statutory Requirements
For the crimes reported in England, the status of James Close is as follows:
- Current Status: Convicted (Sentenced November 22, 2019).
- Custodial Sentence: 2 years (Full term subsequently confirmed at Durham Crown Court).
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements are active.
- SHPO Status: Subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
- Judicial Oversight: Sentenced at Durham Crown Court following a Durham Constabulary investigation.
- Criminal Record: Theft (from employer); Making/Possessing indecent images of children (4 counts); Possession of extreme pornography.
- Origin: Central Parade, Shildon, County Durham.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Close is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) at a high level of scrutiny in County Durham. Due to the nature of his conduct at the Passport Office, which involved the physical theft of images to facilitate “vile” sexual interests, his management is a priority for the Public Protection Unit. Authorities state that his history of exploiting a secure government environment necessitates permanent exclusion from any role involving sensitive data or access to the public’s personal information.
As a member of the Sex Offenders Register, Close must comply with all notification requirements regarding his identity and residence. Authorities state that his “dark” history of “vicious” theft in Durham requires permanent vigilance by local offender management teams. Any future attempt to seek employment in a position of trust, access unmonitored digital equipment, or fail to disclose his location in Shildon will result in immediate arrest and a return to the prison system.
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