Ellesmere Port man who stockpiled 43,000 indecent images of children jailed
A man who stockpiled more than 43,000 indecent images of children, including AI-generated abuse material and self-written paedophile manuals, has been jailed for three and a half years following a National Crime Agency investigation.
NCA officers began investigating Charles Cornelius, 57, from Ellesmere Port, after information showed that an account linked to him had uploaded ten indecent images of children to the internet.
Cornelius had been living and teaching in Thailand and returned to the UK in June 2022, when he uploaded the images.
He was arrested at Manchester Airport on 9 August 2023 on suspicion of possession, making and distribution of indecent images after returning to the UK. He gave no comment in interview and was released on bail with conditions.
Magistrates later rejected an application for him to return to Thailand during the investigation.
Analysis of his devices found known and AI-generated child sexual abuse material, as well as prompts used to create the AI imagery.
Officers also recovered two self-generated paedophile manuals, despite attempts to encrypt devices and hide the files.
Cornelius had previously taught young children in several countries.
It is understood he took a course in teaching English to non-native speakers before working with the British Council in Thailand from 2012 onwards.
He pleaded guilty to all charges at Manchester Magistrates’ Court in September. He was sentenced at Chester Crown Court on 11 December.
NCA operations manager Danielle Pownall said: “Cornelius sought out and created images showing horrific abuse of children, including using AI to create further depraved imagery. His creation of paedophile manuals reflects a disturbing desire to prey on the most vulnerable in society. He did all this whilst putting himself in a position of trust around children.”
She added: “The NCA is committed to prosecuting criminals who engage in child sexual abuse activity and pursue justice for victims.”
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