PICKERING MAN CARL HOBAN SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN YORK AND SCARBOROUGH

In a case that has shocked the local community, Carl Hoban, a 65-year-old resident of Pickering, was sentenced to prison for a series of disturbing sexual offenses involving a young boy. The incidents took place in various locations, including Hoban's home in Pickering and hotel rooms in Scarborough, highlighting a pattern of predatory behavior that spanned several months.

Hoban, who has an extensive criminal record with over one hundred previous convictions, was found guilty of multiple charges related to the sexual abuse of a 15-year-old boy. The court heard that Hoban had deceived the boy’s mother by pretending to offer him work, while secretly planning to exploit the youth for his own gratification. During the trial, it was revealed that Hoban purchased women’s underwear during a trip to Ireland, which was linked to his inappropriate intentions.

The court was also informed that Hoban sexually assaulted the boy at his residence in Pickering. Additionally, he booked hotel rooms at the Grand Hotel in Scarborough, where further abuse was carried out. The judge described Hoban as a “dirty old man,” emphasizing the severity of his actions and his blatant disregard for the victim’s well-being.

Judge Paul Batty QC, the Honorary Recorder of York, delivered a stern sentence, condemning Hoban’s conduct. He sentenced Hoban to four years in prison and ordered him to be placed on the sex offenders’ register for life. Furthermore, Hoban was subjected to a lifelong sexual harm prevention order, which prohibits him from contacting the victim or any other boy under the age of 16.

Hoban was convicted by a jury on three counts of sexual activity with a child and three counts of grooming the boy through hotel bookings. Throughout the proceedings, Hoban maintained his innocence, denying the charges. The judge acknowledged that Hoban had not used threats to coerce the boy, and noted that the victim had not been unwilling to participate in the sexual activities.

During the sentencing, Kirstie Watson, representing Hoban, expressed that he wished to apologize to both the boy and his mother, claiming he was “very very sorry” for his actions. However, the judge pointed out that the most meaningful way for Hoban to demonstrate remorse would have been to admit guilt earlier, rather than deny the charges.

Hoban’s case has left a lasting impact on the community, raising concerns about safeguarding and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable youths from predatory individuals like him.