South Yorkshire bus driver lost his job after he was caught with indecent images of children
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Sheffield Crown Court heard on January 26 how Ben Mather, aged 30, of Station Road, Darton, Barnsley, was found to have downloaded indecent images of children after police executed a search warrant at his home in June, 2019, and siezed computers.
David Hall, prosecuting, said after police examined Mather’s devices they discovered 250 category A images, 174 category B images and 65 category C images, with category A being the most serious.
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Hide AdMather, who has no previous convictions, pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images.
Mr Hall added Mather had used a “cleaner” to conceal the illicit material and a facility designed to conceal his address.
Christopher Brewin, defending, said: “He had a good employment record but because of these proceedings he lost his employment as a bus driver.”
Mr Brewin added Mather regrets his wrong-doing and has expressed remorse by way of his co-operation with the police.
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Hide AdMather has also been prescribed anti-depressants, according to Mr Brewin.
Mr Brewin said: “Alcohol played a role in this offending and it was a disinhibiting factor.”
Judge Sarah Wright sentenced Mather to a two year community order with a Rehabilitation Activity Requirement and a sex-offender treatment programme.
Mather was placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register and made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for five years.
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Hide AdJudge Wright warned Mather if he commits further offences or breaches his orders he faces prison.