Burnley nurse had child and animal porn on computer

David Hartley Haigh (52), of Brunshaw Road, appeared before Burnley Crown Court on Friday and pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent photos of children between August and October 2012.

He was also accused of possession of extreme animal porn during the same period.

The court heard Haigh had been married for a number of years and his wife had “concerns” about his internet viewing habits. However, it wasn’t until the couple separated in 2012 and Haigh went to live with his elderly parents in Brunshaw Road, when his wife contacted police and a warrant was executed on November 1st, 2012.

Police searched the house and seized an Ipad, laptop and an external disc drive belonging to Haigh. On examination they discovered 63 indecent movies – a number depicting children and young people. No movies were found of children aged under 10 and there was no evidence to suggest he forwarded the images to others.

However, there were also 26 extreme images found showing adults having sex with animals.

Judge Jonathan Gibson sentenced Haigh to four months in prison, suspended for two years with a two-year supervision order. Judge Gibson reminded Haigh he had lost his job and good name.

He added: “You must attend the internet sex offender treatment programme and notify your details to the police for seven years under the sex offenders’ list.” Haigh has also been banned from working with children and vulnerable adults and was ordered to pay £250 costs.

Haigh previously worked as a theatre nurse until his registration was suspended for a 12-month period by The Nursing and Midwifery Council following Haigh’s arrest.

Mr Philip Holden (defending) explained to the court how Haigh had lost a job he loved. He said: “Haigh has lost his 30-year nursing career that saw him work as a theatre nurse with an unblemished record – a job he loved and enjoyed very much – one that he won’t be able to do again.”