A man who changed his name to offend under the radar has been jailed

Mason Maxwell (16/07/1989) of no fixed abode, who previously went by the name ‘Kane Hutchison’, has been jailed for three years following an investigation by our Stockport Complex Safeguarding Team.

Originally from Gateshead, Hutchinson changed his name by deed poll, and moved to Greater Manchester where he continued his offending against children.

Following an extensive investigation by specialist officers in Stockport, Maxwell pleaded guilty to one count of taking an indecent video of a child, three counts of taking indecent images of a child, two counts of making an indecent image of a child, and three counts of distributing an indecent image of a child.

Yesterday (Wednesday Monday 24 June), he appeared at Minshull Crown Court where he was sentenced to three years in jail. He has been placed on the sex offenders register for life and he is subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for 15 years.

In 2021, following a piece of intelligence from the community, Stockport Complex Safeguarding Team launched an investigation into Maxwell and work began to identify if any young people had been affected by Maxwell’s alleged offending.

On Thursday 6 January 2022, officers executed a warrant at Maxwell’s address on Clowes Street in Salford and seized several crucial electrical devices.

A full digital examination of the devices revealed indecent images and video of children. He was then sharing these images and bragging about his deplorable illicit sexual endeavours to whoever would listen.

Detective Constable Ben Swapp from Stockport’s Complex Safeguarding Hub said: “Maxwell is a calculated and depraved individual who took extraordinary measures to change his name so that he could continue offending in a new location, preying on vulnerable young people.

“Throughout his interview, Maxwell denied all allegations and had endless excuses for his predatory behaviour. He showed no remorse for his actions, refusing to consider the effect his deplorable behaviour had on the young victims and their families.

“I would encourage anyone who has been affected by this case or believes they have been a victim of sexual abuse, please come forward and report this to us. We have specially trained officers and partners who will support you and ensure you get the help and care you need."