In 2026, the Offender Database reported that Benjamin Kerrison, then 37, of Penny’s Crescent, Southampton, was sentenced at Southampton Crown Court. Kerrison avoided immediate imprisonment despite being found in possession of the most severe category of child abuse images and attempting to groom multiple children online.
The court heard that police attended Kerrison’s home in February 2025 following “information received.” A forensic analysis of his devices uncovered nine Category A images—the most severe level, depicting the rape and torture of children—alongside several Category B and C pictures. The victims in the images were estimated to be between five and seven years old. Furthermore, police discovered Snapchat conversations between Kerrison and six children whose identities remain unknown to the authorities.
During the investigation, Benjamin Kerrison attempted to mislead officers by claiming that any images found on his phone were of his 22-year-old partner. However, when confronted with the fact that the images were clearly of young children, he refused to comment further. While on bail, Kerrison was rearrested in October 2025 for breaching his conditions and spent several months on remand prior to his final sentencing.
In mitigation, his defence argued that his behaviour was a result of deteriorating mental health, past trauma, and increased alcohol consumption. Judge Nigel Peters KC acknowledged that while a prison sentence was “absolutely justified,” he believed rehabilitation in the community would be more effective given Kerrison’s previous “good character.”
On January 5, 2026, Benjamin Kerrison was handed a 14-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months. He was ordered to complete a six-month alcohol treatment programme and 25 rehabilitation activity requirement sessions. Additionally, a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) was imposed for 10 years, legally prohibiting him from owning any internet-enabled device without prior police notification, and he must register as a sex offender.
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.