New figures on the number of arrests and convictions for possessing images of child sexual abuse in Greater Manchester have been described by the NSPCC as confirming ‘a deeply worrying trend’.
A Freedom of Information request to Greater Manchester Police revealed that 915 people were arrested on suspicion of possessing indecent images of children – of which 459 were convicted – during the four years 2010-2014.
“From our own research we know that one in three of those convicted of possessing indecent images have also committed other serious sex offences against children,” an NSPCC spokesperson told MM.
“What’s important is that whether convicted or cautioned, offenders are put on the sex offenders register, are always considered a risk to children and are closely monitored.
“It’s therefore vital these people are identified and brought to the attention of the authorities.”
Last week, the NSPCC published its own figures in its annual report on the extent of abuse and neglect in the UK, ‘How safe are our children?’.
The report showed an 80% increase in the number of children at risk of abuse since 2002 and that three child sex offences are committed every hour.
“Viewing these appalling images creates a market for them which puts more children at risk as the demand increases,” the spokesperson added.
“To tackle this problem, we need a solution that cuts this material off at the source.”
Greater Manchester Police have not responded to requests for comment.
Image courtesy of DanStrange2 via FlickR, with thanks.
