JARROW PENSIONER WHO RAPED TWO CHILDREN JAILED FOR MORE THAN 18 YEARS
A pensioner who committed sexual assaults on two children has been sentenced to prison and deemed a danger to the community.The judge stated that there is a substantial risk that Arthur Hodgson would reoffend if released, leading to an 18-year and nine-month incarceration.
Hodgson, aged 69 and residing on Birch Grove in Jarrow, South Tyneside, pleaded guilty to 18 charges, including rapes, sexual attacks, and encouraging a child to participate in sexual activity.
During the hearing at Newcastle Crown Court, Judge Amanda Rippon also imposed a five-year extended license period to ensure continued public safety.
She commented, "I have had no difficulty in concluding that you are dangerous.
I am satisfied there is a significant risk of you committing further offences if you are released.
There is a real potential for you to inflict serious harm." The court was told that Hodgson's crimes had a profoundly destructive and ongoing impact on the victims.
Judge Rippon added, "I hope that today’s sentence will help them move forward, and that one day they will be able to do so.
I am aware that they will never forget what has happened; these experiences will remain with them for the rest of their lives.
They are remarkably brave young women and deserve a chance at life after this.
I genuinely hope they find happiness." Defense solicitor Tony Cornberg remarked, "It’s clear that he needs to receive treatment while in custody." He also noted Hodgson's health issues and suggested that a lengthy prison sentence might influence the way he spends his remaining days.
The court was informed that Hodgson has only one prior conviction, from the 1980s, for receiving stolen goods.
