A PERVERT who downloaded a haul of thousands of indecent pictures of children was found to have viewed the worst category of images depicting the sexual abuse of babies.

David Finch, 38, was arrested after an Essex Police online investigations team raided his Colchester home in June 2019.

Laura McLeod, prosecuting at Colchester Magistrates’ Court, said officers seized a number of electronic devices and carried out a forensic examination.

She said: “But in essence, a number of these are pre-pubescent children, including babies – at category A the crown would say it is clearly not suitable for this court.

“The starting point in relation to category A images is one year in custody.”

Finch, of Paxman Avenue, Colchester, admitted three counts of making indecent images of children.

The charges related to 751 images at category A, 1,451 pictures at category B and 5,883 images at category C.

The court heard Finch had co-operated fully with the police investigation, attending the police station for a voluntary interview under caution.

Magistrates were told he also submitted to a polygraph test.

Magistrates declined jurisdiction of the case and ordered a pre-sentence report be carried out.

A sentencing hearing will be held at Ipswich Crown Court on Tuesday, April 13.

Finch was released on unconditional bail until the hearing, remaining subject to notification requirements which will keep the police informed of his whereabouts.

An NSPCC spokesman said: “By possessing and downloading these images Finch was fuelling a vile online trade that thrives on the abuse of children.”

Anyone with concerns for the welfare of children can call the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk.