A CARLISLE pensioner who downloaded an extreme pornographic image has avoided jail.

Peter Ward pleaded guilty to a charge of Carlisle’s magistrates’ court earlier this month.

The court had heard how the 70-year-old used his home computer to access dark-web chat rooms, and, said Pam Ward prosecuting, he unwittingly told an undercover police officer online in May last year that he had an interest in children and bestiality.

He then sent an extreme pornographic image to the undercover officer.

The pensioner, of Orton Road, said he had not personally participated either in sexually abusing children or bestiality, but he had watched children being abused.

Malcolm Dodds, for Ward, told the court these sites on the dark-web, unknown to his client, are monitored by the National Crime Agency. Mr Dodds added that this is not child pornography, but extreme pornography, pointing to the statutory difference between the two offences.

He said at the first hearing: “If this was child pornography, you (the court) would not be sentencing him; he would be off to crown court. Nevertheless, it is serious stuff.”

Dodds maintained what he said was “pure fantasy” and “pure escapism”, but this offence has ruined his life. Ward also denied he has a sexual interest in children or animals.

The court heard that Ward is completely ashamed of the situation and is very sorry. He pledged to never have another computer in his home and said he has learned his lesson.

The lawyer also told the magistrates this offence has “effectively” ruined his life. He lives at home with his wife and is said to have his family’s backing.

Ward was sentenced to eight weeks in custody, suspended for one-year. He must also attend a 20-day rehabilitation course run by the Probation Service.

He was ordered to pay £85 in costs and a victim surcharge of £115.

Ward was also placed on the sex offender register for five years, part of this order states he must not own or use a computer or any device that can be connected to the internet.