
A former taxi driver from Leeds has been jailed after police uncovered a "sickening" collection of child abuse images and evidence of a hidden camera used to spy on a woman.
Rehan Farooq, 37, was caught following a police raid on his home in April, where officers found a hoard of indecent images and disturbing chat logs.
In these messages, Farooq discussed horrific fantasies involving the rape and murder of children and women with other offenders.
Despite his claims that he was not "into that sort of stuff" and was merely under the influence of drugs, a second police raid in October revealed even more evidence.
Forensic analysis of a new phone uncovered hidden camera footage of a woman using a toilet and showering, which Farooq had shared with others.
In total, authorities found over 500 illegal images and videos, including the most severe "Category A" depictions of child abuse, along with extreme pornography involving animals.
Farooq, who was already serving a suspended sentence for dangerous driving, pleaded guilty to charges including voyeurism, making indecent photographs of children, and possessing extreme pornography.
His defence lawyer, Lily Wildman, claimed he was "genuinely remorseful" and blamed his actions on illegal drug use. However, Judge Andrew Stubbs KC rejected these excuses during sentencing at Leeds Crown Court.
The judge told Farooq: “You took the deliberate choice to look for, download and distribute the most serious kind of indecent images of children.
"You shared the most grotesque of fantasies, including the rape and mutilation of children.”
The judge added that Farooq sought out the material for his own "perverted sexual gratification" and noted: “You can’t confront your own sexual addiction to children.”
Farooq was sentenced to 40 months in prison, placed on the sex offender register for life, and given a lifelong order to restrict his internet use.

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