CHELL GREEN PENSIONER DAVID HUGHES SENTENCED FOR INDECENT ASSAULTS ON SCHOOLBOY IN STOKE-ON-TRENT

In April 2014, David Hughes, a 71-year-old resident of Chell Green, was sentenced to over three years in prison after being found guilty of multiple indecent assaults on a young boy. Hughes, who previously managed a youth club, committed these heinous acts over a prolonged period, spanning more than two years, and targeting a boy aged between 10 and 12 years old.

The court heard that the abuse began when the victim was just 10 years old. Prosecutor Neil Ahuja detailed that Hughes initially engaged in inappropriate physical contact, such as tickling the boy under his arms and behind his knees. As the abuse continued, Hughes committed further indecent acts, which persisted until the victim confided in a friend at school when he was 12. This disclosure ultimately led to Hughes’s arrest and subsequent conviction.

Hughes handed himself into the police in December of the same year, admitting to his offending and acknowledging that he knew his actions were wrong. During his interview, he claimed that his behavior was driven by curiosity, a justification that was met with condemnation by the court. The victim, now an adult, has been profoundly affected by the abuse, suffering severe emotional trauma and having made attempts on his own life as a result.

At Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, Hughes pleaded guilty to six charges of indecent assault. His defense solicitor, Stuart Muldoon, highlighted the ongoing impact on the victim and the lengthy duration of the abuse as aggravating factors. He also noted that Hughes’s family has had to endure the shame and embarrassment associated with his actions. Hughes, who has a previous record of good character, had been on remand in prison for four months prior to sentencing.

Judge David Fletcher described the case as particularly serious, emphasizing Hughes’s persistence and the vulnerability of the young victim. In his sentencing remarks, the judge stated, “To say you ruined the victim’s life is not to overstate the true position because that is what you have done. That was a wicked thing for you to have done. You caused severe psychological harm to your victim.”

Following the sentencing, a Staffordshire Police spokesperson reaffirmed the force’s commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable individuals. The statement underscored their dedication to thoroughly investigating all allegations of sexual abuse, including historical cases, and working collaboratively with partners to address these grave crimes in a sensitive and effective manner.