Vicar Caught with Horrific Child and Animal Abuse Images
David Renshaw, a 63-year-old vicar from Worthing, has been found guilty of multiple disturbing offences at Hove Crown Court. The grim verdict came down on Tuesday, February 7th, after an intense investigation by Sussex Police.
Shocking Charges: Child Abuse and Bestiality Images
Renshaw was convicted on eight counts, including:
- Possessing indecent images of children
- Making indecent images of children
- Possessing prohibited images of children
- Possessing extreme pornographic images involving acts with dogs and horses
The vile collection uncovered by police included over 22,500 illegal images found on devices seized from his home.
How the Horror Was Discovered
The nightmare began in June 2019 when an illegal image linked to Renshaw’s email and IP address was spotted on a New Zealand file-sharing site. The National Crime Agency passed the case to Sussex Police, who executed a raid at his Wallace Avenue residence in August 2020.
The RSPCA also intervened, rescuing several severely malnourished dogs, cats, and chickens from his property, exposing appalling animal cruelty alongside the child abuse.
Police Speak Out on Disturbing Investigation
“Renshaw has tried to blame everyone but himself,” said Detective Sergeant David Rose. “He refuses to accept any responsibility, which must outrage the local parish he served.”
“The child abuse images were found under his username on his desk hard drive – amassed over a long time. The search of his home was one of the most revolting scenes we’ve encountered. Malnourished animals, a dead kitten and rat, used needles and drug paraphernalia made it a truly grim sight.”
“This was a harrowing investigation for officers involved, especially those tasked with sorting through the horrific images.”
“We thank partner agencies and the Diocese of Chichester for their full cooperation. Thankfully, no children were at risk.”
Next Steps for the Fallen Clergyman
Renshaw was arrested and charged following the probe by Sussex Police’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT). He denied all offences but was found guilty on every count by the jury.
He has been released on bail and is due to be sentenced on March 13th.
