Perverted Sunderland loner keeps freedom after police discover hundreds of indecent cartoons of children
A sick pervert who “lives his life through the internet” and was found in possession of hundreds of indecent cartoons of children has kept his freedom for now.
Marc Lillie had collected a trove of vile pictures over the space of more than a decade after developing an interest in Japanese anime.
Newcastle Crown Court heard Lillie was snared at his home by cops in July of last year after receiving a tip off that an indecent picture was uploaded online from his address.
A number of devices were seized from the 38-year-old pervert as detectives uncovered disturbing internet searches and more than 600 images.
Prosecuting, Mairi Clancy told the court Lillie, who was on benefits, possessed graphic cartoon images of a child as young as three as well as another aged between seven and ten.
Lillie, of Thristley Gardens, in Sunderland, had also searched the internet for “preteen” and “child bondage”, discussed child abuse with an unidentified person.
Ms Clancy added: “He has a sexual interest in children and that is realised in him engaging in chats with others discussing the abuse of children.”
Defending, Liam O’Brien described Lillie's lonely existence living with his mum, adding he is on the autism spectrum.
Mr O'Brien said: “He has always found it very difficult to interact socially with other people.
“He lives a very secluded life with his mother rarely leaving the house.
“He doesn't have any real life friends.
“It started with an interest in Japanese comics and cartoons.
“He realises now just how serious the position he finds himself in is."
Lillie admitted possession of prohibited images of children and was found guilty of two counts of making indecent photographs of children.
Recorder Jamie Hill sentenced Lillie, who was previously of good character, to six months in prison, which was suspended for two years.
He was also ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work, complete 25 rehabilitation days, sign the sex offenders' register and pay £500 in costs.
Judge Hill said: “He lives his life through the internet and it seems he doesn't have friendships other than those he has online.”