ARTHUR HILTON BASINGSTOKE AND OAKLEY PAEDOPHILE SENTENCED AFTER 35 YEARS

In a case that spanned over three decades, Arthur Hilton, aged 78, has finally been brought to justice for a series of heinous crimes committed in the towns of Basingstoke and Oakley. The lengthy legal process culminated in Hilton receiving a four-and-a-half-year prison sentence after he pleaded guilty to eight charges related to indecent assault and indecency with a minor.

Hilton’s criminal activities date back to the late 1970s, a period during which he exploited the innocence of young boys in the Basingstoke area. His victims, some as young as eight years old, endured sexual abuse over a span of six years. During this time, Hilton would often manipulate his victims by offering them money and presents, including sweets and cigarettes, as a means of coercion and control. These acts of abuse were carried out in various locations, including Hilton’s residence and his workplace, where he worked as a cleaner.

The crimes first came to light after the victims, now adults, decided to speak out in late 2011. Their courage prompted a police investigation that eventually led to Hilton’s arrest in December of the following year. At the time of his arrest, Hilton was residing in Glamis Close, Oakley, a village near Basingstoke. The court heard that Hilton’s abuse began shortly after he moved into a house in South Ham in 1976, where he initially presented himself as a lodger after declaring bankruptcy.

During the trial at Winchester Crown Court, prosecutor Matthew Jewell detailed how Hilton developed inappropriate relationships with two young boys, abusing them separately. One of these boys, who was only eight when the abuse started, was told by Hilton that the acts were merely a game. Another victim, who was 11 at the time, was subjected to repeated abuse. A third boy was abused when Hilton took him to his workplace, and a fourth was exploited while working under a car, receiving £10 each time Hilton assaulted him.

The court was informed that the victims eventually reported their experiences to the police in autumn 2011. Their testimonies led to Hilton’s arrest and subsequent charges. One of the victims recounted how Hilton used to give him presents, such as sweets and cigarettes, which he now recognizes as bribes for sexual favors. The victim expressed ongoing shame about the events, highlighting the lasting impact of Hilton’s actions.

Judge Guy Boney, presiding over the case, sentenced Hilton to four and a half years in prison. In his remarks, the judge acknowledged the gravity of Hilton’s sins, stating, “You are someone who, in the late evening of your life, has been visited by ghosts of your past sins, and very substantial sins they turn out to have been.”

Defending Hilton, solicitor Dominic Cox admitted that his client had confessed to the abuse during police interviews but emphasized that Hilton had no prior criminal record. Following the sentencing, Detective Constable Paul Smith praised the victims for their bravery in coming forward after so many years. He emphasized that law enforcement agencies remain committed to investigating historical offences and encouraged others who may have suffered similar abuse to report their experiences, regardless of how much time has passed.