CHRISTOPHER HODDER FROM KIRKBY STEPHEN INVOLVED IN ONLINE SEXUAL OFFENSES IN CUMBRIA

In a case that has shocked the local community of Kirkby Stephen and the wider Cumbria region, Christopher Hodder, aged 27, was involved in a disturbing series of online sexual misconduct involving a minor. The incident came to light in June 2013 when authorities uncovered the extent of Hodder’s inappropriate behavior towards a 14-year-old boy he had befriended through his work at a circus school.

Hodder, who was known locally for his role as a circus performer, initially established a friendly relationship with the young boy, which appeared innocent at first. However, the situation quickly escalated into a more sinister exchange when Hodder began sending the boy a series of text messages that included explicit content, along with a graphic photograph. The court heard that the two engaged in online sexual sessions via Skype, a popular video calling platform, which added a troubling digital dimension to the misconduct.

The disturbing nature of Hodder’s actions was uncovered when the victim’s father discovered the Facebook messages exchanged between his son and Hodder. Concerned about the content and the potential harm to his child, the father promptly contacted the police. The investigation revealed that Hodder had encouraged the boy to meet him in person, although, fortunately, no meeting ever took place.

During police interviews, Hodder admitted to encouraging the boy to arrange a physical meeting, but he denied any further contact or actions beyond the online exchanges. He pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to two charges of causing a child to watch a sexual act, acknowledging his misconduct and the breach of trust involved.

In mitigation, the court was informed that Hodder had taken responsibility for his actions and expressed genuine remorse. It was also revealed that he had himself been a victim of abuse during his childhood, which the court considered as a factor in understanding his behavior. The judge noted that Hodder’s remorse and acknowledgment of his wrongdoing were significant, but emphasized the seriousness of the offenses.

Judge Barbara Forrester sentenced Hodder to eight months in prison, suspended for two years, recognizing the incident as a “life-changing” event for him. She also took into account the abuse Hodder suffered as a child, which she described as a contributing factor. The judge stressed that, although the case involved electronic contact, the seriousness of the breach of trust warranted a firm response.

Additionally, Hodder was placed under a two-year supervision order, required to register as a sex offender for ten years, and was prohibited from working with children in any capacity. These measures aim to prevent any future harm and reflect the gravity of his misconduct in the context of his role and responsibilities.