A vile man who spent just under £2,000 to access horrific child abuse ‘live streams’ has been jailed following a successful operation by Essex Police.
The investigation was led by specialist police officers who are dedicated to tackling evil and depraved online child sex offences.
Officers from Essex Police’s Online Investigation Team (POLIT) executed a warrant at Ian Cowen’s home address in February last year.
The warrant followed intelligence processed by Essex Police that the internet connection at the address had been used to access vile and depraved indecent images of children between August and September 2018.
During the warrant, several phones, computers and electronic storage devices were seized from Cowen’s property.
When forensic officers examined these devices, hundreds and vile and sick indecent images of young and vulnerable children were found.
Officers also established that sick Cowen had carried out internet searches relating to the abuse of children.
Officers also found dozens of chats with other users on Skype, where Cowen discussed the abuse of children and offered to pay for live streams showing abuse.
In total, it was established the 35-year-old, of The Westerings, had spent nearly £1,800 between 2014 and 2019 with various online streaming services.
He was charged and on 30th April 2020 at Chelmsford Crown Court.
Depraved Cowen admitted making indecent images of children, taking indecent images of children and attempting to arrange a child sex offence.
At the same court yesterday (9th July), Cowen was jailed for three years.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Nick Riley, from POLIT, said:
“Following a thorough investigation, Ian Cowen is now serving a sentence in prison and will remain a registered sex offender for the rest of his life.
“He attempted to take advantage of vulnerable children and vulnerable people from the far east, by exploiting their circumstances and their need for food and medication.
“It is abhorrent, and Essex Police POLIT will continue to work with colleagues from around the world to put a stop to these horrific crimes.
“No child, whatever their circumstances should have to suffer at the hands of offenders like Ian Cowen.
“Sadly, these types of cases are not uncommon, but our team is dedicated to bringing offenders to justice, and ensuring that all children are safeguarded, no matter where they are.
“Parents and carers should be vigilant surrounding their children’s online activities, and I implore them to research websites and applications.
“Help and advice can be found at www.internetmatters.org.”
Detective Inspector Jo Collins, who leads POLIT, said:
“This is another case which highlights the dedication and professionalism of my team.
“Ian Cowen posed a danger to children, but now, thanks to the diligent work by my officers and the thorough investigation they carried out, he is behind bars.
“The work my team does often takes place away from the public eye but is really important.
“I hope communities across Essex can be reassured that while they go about their daily business there is a team of dedicated and determined officers ensuring children are kept safe online.”
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