Disgraced Huw Edwards was given a six month suspended prison sentence at Westminster Magistrates’ Court after admitting three charges of making indecent images of children.
Police today released a mugshot of disgraced star Huw Edwards, who has avoided a prison sentence.
In a bleary-eyed photograph the disgraced BBC presenter looked disheveled after his arrest last year which this afternoon saw him told he had his career in tatters.
The former News at Ten presenter, 63, was given a six month prison sentence, suspended for two months, by Lord Chief Justice Paul Goldspring at a hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court today.
Edwards leaned forward and pressed his hand to his lips as Goldspring told him: “The consequences of child sexual abuse are severe and can last a lifetime,” Goldspring began his sentence by telling Edwards his “reputation has been shattered”.
Mr Goldspring said: “You are recognised for your dedication and professionalism and are arguably the best-known journalist in the UK.” Her reputation has been ruined.”
The judge described Edwards’ crimes as “extremely serious” but concluded he posed no danger or threat to children. A sex offenders’ treatment programme and 25 rehabilitation sessions are part of the sentence.
After former BBC presenter Edwards was sentenced, Claire Brinton, prosecuting, said: “Access to indecent images of children perpetuated the sexual exploitation of children which caused deep and long-lasting trauma.”
The CPS and London police were able to prove that Edwards received illicit images and videos involving children via WhatsApp
‘This prosecution sends a clear message that the CPS will work with police to achieve justice.’ ‘Those who will exploit children wherever abuse occurs.’
Westminster Magistrates’ Court heard the disgraceful circumstances in which Edwards paid up to £1,500 to a convicted paedophile who told him he had sent her 41 illicit images between December 2020 and August 2021.
Seven of these were the most severe type. The estimated age of most of the children was between 13 and 15 years old.
The court heard that Edwards “had no recollection” of viewing the child abuse images which had ruined his career due to his deteriorating mental health. His defence lawyer said: “You will have read about the state of Mr Edwards’ physical and mental health which was particularly bad at the time this offence took place.
“It affected his perception.” He does not remember seeing any specific images. He did not save these images on any devices. Mr Evans KC said a disgraced Edwards had “hurt his family and loved ones” and was “deeply remorseful” for committing the crimes.
