Christopher Ratcliffe, 47, of Stanley Road, was convicted of possessing Category A, B and C images of child sex abuse.
He appeared at Woolwich Crown Court for sentencing on Friday (January 3).
Judge Charlotte Welsh told Ratcliffe: “Make no mistake anyone who sees a Category A image would be revolted by it. They are so, so abusive.”
But the judge said: “The total sentence is 18 months’ imprisonment. However, I do consider whether I can suspend this sentence.
“I am of the view that given the lack of relevant previous offending and admission of guilt that the public is best protected by you getting help from the probation service. So I am going to suspend that sentence.”
Ratcliffe will be required to notify the police of his whereabouts for the next five years.
