Child abuse photos police support officer spared jail
A police community support officer who downloaded pictures of children being abused has been given a suspended jail term.
James Allan, of Blackburn Street, Workington, admitted 14 offences of making indecent images of children and one of possessing extreme pornography.
The 21-year-old was given a 12-month prison sentence suspended for two years by a judge at Carlisle Crown Court.
Cumbria Police confirmed he no longer worked for the force.
He was also given a two year supervision order, disqualified from working with children for life and put on the sex offenders register for 10 years.
Supt Andy Towler, of Cumbria Police, said: "Specially trained officers analysed his personal computer and uncovered 314 illegal still and moving images of children being abused.
"These images ranged from level one through to level five and extreme pornography which he had downloaded illegally from the internet.
"The result today sends a strong message to offenders that no matter who you are, or your standing within the community, you will be caught and brought to justice."