A Gateshead paedophile, Ryan Handleigh, who disseminated abhorrent child abuse photographs online, has evaded incarceration.
Isolated individual Ryan Handleigh disseminated inappropriate images of minors and possessed a collection of abusive visuals, including severe pornography including animals. Subsequent to the apprehension of the 28-year-old by law enforcement, he was released on bail; however, he proceeded to perpetrate other charges related to indecent photos.
Last week, Ryan Handleigh, residing on Sunderland Road in Gateshead, was jailed at Newcastle Crown Court for two counts of distributing indecent photos, six counts of creating indecent images, and two counts of possessing severe pornography involving animals. He pleaded guilty to the grave crimes committed between 2021 and 2023.
Susannah Proctor, for the prosecution, stated that Ryan Handleigh obtained indecent photographs from the dark web and disseminated one category A indecent image on Instagram. He had additionally disseminated two category C photos online.
The police subsequently obtained referrals from Twitter and Instagram regarding the dissemination of indecent photographs associated with Ryan Handleigh. Officers visited his residence in Gateshead and discovered him in possession of 134 category A photographs, 85 category B images, and 262 category C images. He also possessed extreme pornography.
The court was informed that Ryan Handleigh was subsequently released on bail by the police, nevertheless he proceeded to perpetrate other offences and was apprehended with further immoral material involving minors and animals. Ms. Proctor stated that during the police interrogation, Handleigh was “candid” regarding his offences.
Susan Hirst, in defence, stated that Ryan Handleigh possessed a prior commendable character and submitted early guilty pleas. She stated: “He acknowledged that he must possess a sexual interest in children and was exploring it out of curiosity.”
Ms. Hirst stated that Ryan Handleigh had cultivated an addiction to adult pornography and downloaded obscene photos “while under the influence of substances.” She stated, “He leads a highly secluded existence.” He possesses only one buddy whom he meets consistently and experienced bullying in school, resulting in self-harm. The court was informed that Ryan Handleigh has never had a job and is presently receiving benefits.
In his sentencing, Judge Robert Adams stated: “The police received a referral from Twitter associated with you.” In October 2022, a reference was made from Instagram about the dissemination of a category A image.
A police operation was conducted, resulting in seizures. You were questioned in February 2023 and provided complete admissions. While on bail, you perpetrated additional acts and were interrogated in December 2024, during which you provided no commentary.
Ryan Handleigh received a two-year prison term, suspended for two years, and was mandated to participate in a sex offender treatment program and a mental health treatment program. He will be listed on the sex offender registry for a duration of 10 years, and a 10-year sexual harm prevention order has been enacted.
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