Burglar Uncovers Thousands of Child Abuse Images, Leading to Father's Conviction
David Terrence Pethig has been sentenced to 18 years in custody, alongside a 12-month extended licence period, following the revelation of his crimes through an unexpected series of events. Pethig's daughter, Lizzie Jones, 49, endured sexual abuse from him starting at the age of four, a trauma she concealed for decades.
In 2011, a burglary at the family home led to the theft of Pethig's laptop. The burglar subsequently reported to the police that the device contained over 8,500 images of child sexual abuse. Pethig admitted to 17 charges of making indecent images and two of possessing indecent images and video, but was initially spared a prison sentence for these offences.
This revelation prompted Ms Jones, then 42, to finally inform her mother of the abuse she had suffered. Her mother encouraged her to contact the police, leading to a comprehensive investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department.
In February 2023, Pethig faced new charges, including 15 indecent assaults, three rapes, an assault by penetration, and attempting to commit a serious sexual assault. He pleaded guilty to these charges, resulting in the significant custodial sentence. Ms Jones stated, "I have got all I wanted. I've got him locked up but it doesn't take away all the memories." She added that despite achieving justice, she continues to live with the trauma and is now undertaking therapy for night terrors.
