Couple Jailed for Hosting Sick Child Abuse Video Chatroom
Two men have been locked up after hosting an online room to play horrific child sexual abuse footage. Marc Burton, 38, and John Harrison, 32, who were in a relationship, streamed Category A content — the most severe type — during sessions in February 2016. The vile pair also discussed abusing babies while sharing the disgusting videos with other paedophiles.
Disturbing Details Unveiled by National Crime Agency
- Burton was arrested at his home in Jarrow on November 1, 2017. Police found drugs including MDMA and cannabis resin, plus electronic scales and snap bags.
- His devices contained a staggering 1,125 Category A abuse images and videos.
- Harrison’s newcastle/" title="Newcastle" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Newcastle home was raided the same day, with officers recovering more drugs and over 500 Category A abuse files on his devices.
Both men pleaded guilty to possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material and were caught encouraging others in the vile activity. During interviews, Burton admitted the offences but bizarrely claimed it was “only online.” Harrison denied involvement and tried to pin the blame on Burton, but fell silent when confronted with footage proving both men hosted the abuse.
Justice Served with Tough Sentences and Lifelong Supervision
At Newcastle Crown Court, the pair were sentenced to two years and eight months behind bars. They will also remain on the sex offenders’ register for life and are subject to 15-year sexual harm prevention orders.
Burton and Harrison are fuelling the scourge of child sexual abuse,” said Graham Ellis, senior investigator with the National Crime Agency. “Offenders fool themselves they’re ‘only watching online,’ but every image shared retraumatises victims.”
Help Is Available
If you have concerns about your own or someone else’s behaviour, the Lucy Faithfull Foundation runs the Stop It Now! helpline offering confidential advice. Child protection is everyone’s business — don’t stay silent.
