Man jailed for 24 years for child sex offences

A 74-year-old man has been sentenced to 24 years in prison after being found guilty of 19 non-recent sexual offences against three children.

John Hewitt, of Preston, Hull was found guilty at Grimsby Crown Court today (22 June 2021) of eight counts of rape, nine counts of indecent assault and two counts of indecency with a child.

The charges were brought as part of an investigation into offences which took place during the 1980s in the Hull and Hessle area against three children aged between 13 and 16 years old at the time of the offences.

Detective Superintendent Phil Gadd investigating said: “Hewitt’s actions against three vulnerable children were sickening and incomprehensible.  Actions which have had a lasting impact on the victims throughout their lives.

“I want to thank the victims and witnesses and commend them for their bravery and perseverance throughout the investigative process. They have displayed dignity and courage throughout this incredibly difficult time as their patience and understanding has been invaluable whilst we built a strong case against Hewitt.

“They have had had to carry the trauma of his criminal actions since their childhood and I sincerely hope that they are now able to feel some sense of justice has been achieved and they can look to hopefully move forward knowing he is in prison where he belongs.

“I also wish to thank the dedicated investigation team, not least Detective Sergeant Samantha Allen and Detective Constable Stephen Jewell who have shown persistence and commitment throughout the lengthy and difficult investigation.”

On passing sentence Judge Bury commented that Mr Hewitt is now 74 years old and in the twilight of his years and has shown no sympathy throughout the trial, it has taken forty years for his chickens to come home to roost. If he were to die in prison serving this sentence then so be it.

We take all reports of sexual abuse seriously and regardless of how much time has passed, we will seek justice for those who have been affected.  We will fully support any victim through the process and encourage anyone who has been affected by a similar issue to come forward and report it to the non-emergency 101 line or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.