Andrew Boyd, 41, and Lara Boyd, 40, from Tameside, have been sentenced to two years in prison for a series of depraved offences against an underage child. The couple, who appeared to be ordinary middle-aged professionals, were secretly consuming enormous quantities of cocaine and alcohol while covertly photographing and filming a child in whom they had a sexual interest.
Investigation and Evidence
Minshull Street Crown Court heard that police were alerted to an indecent image of a child traced to Andrew Boyd's IP address. When officers raided the couple's home, Andrew was arrested. Electronic devices, including an iPad, iPhone, PlayStation 4, and laptop, were seized. Andrew initially admitted to engaging in sexual conversations on the messaging app Kik but denied sharing images of children.
Forensic examination revealed indecent images of the child that had been taken without the victim's knowledge or consent. WhatsApp messages between the couple showed the child was the subject of their 'sexual appetite'. The images were shared only between the two of them. Both were subsequently arrested.
Guilty Pleas and Sentencing
Andrew Boyd pleaded guilty to voyeurism, publishing an obscene article, two counts of making indecent images of children, two counts of distributing indecent images of children, and possession of an extreme pornographic image. Lara Boyd pleaded guilty to voyeurism, publishing an obscene article, and two counts of making indecent images of children. Each received a two-year prison sentence.
In a victim impact statement, the child declared that the Boyds would 'never fully know the effects' the ordeal has had on them, revealing they suffer from 'recurring nightmares'. During sentencing, Andrew stared at the floor while Lara wept.
Defence Arguments
Saul Brody, defending Andrew, said his client had 'sank into the mire of alcohol and drug fuelled depravity'. 'Disinhibited' by alcohol and cocaine, Andrew began accessing pornography, which led to an 'unhealthy interest in more taboo and extreme areas'. Brody described the couple's messages as 'revolting' but noted Andrew is now sober and a 'very different person'.
Ellie Akhgar, representing Lara, stated she is 'thoroughly ashamed' and that 'the commission of these offences are, and will be, the greatest regret of her life'. Lara has stopped taking drugs and now 'rarely' drinks. The court heard the couple's relationship is 'complex', with Lara having been subjected to domestic violence by Andrew, yet they remain together.
Judge's Remarks
Judge Tina Landale described the case as 'extremely serious' and said the impact on the victim has been 'severe'. She handed down the two-year sentences, noting the depravity and breach of trust involved.
