DEREK HODDER AND SHOCKING ABUSE IN BRIXHAM AND EXETER

Derek Ross Hodder, a martial arts instructor based in Brixham, has been convicted of a lengthy and predatory campaign of sexual abuse spanning over three decades. The court found him guilty of 33 separate offences committed against young girls who attended his martial arts club. Hodder, known locally as Ross Hodder, subjected nine victims, all girls aged between 10 and 17 at the time, to rape and indecent assault, in addition to other sexual offences.

The abuse was characterized by an insidious pattern of grooming, manipulation, and exploitation, carried out over many years. Hodder used his position as a martial arts instructor as a means to establish trust and proximity with vulnerable young girls. According to victims’ testimonies, he often developed a relationship of control by giving gifts or cannabis, convincing the girls they should keep their interactions a secret. These manipulative tactics aimed to embed a sense of complicity and silence among his victims.

The initial interactions typically involved Hodder offering massages to the girls. These benign-seeming gestures gradually escalated into more invasive and sexual activities, which often took place at his home, his Renault Laguna car, or inside the back of his van. Many of the women, now adults, explained how Hodder’s behavior was often made to appear 'normal' to them, and they admitted to feeling too scared or confused to stop him during those moments.

Following a comprehensive seven-week trial at Exeter Crown Court, Hodder, aged 65 and residing at Garlic Rea, Brixham, was convicted on 33 counts of sexual offences. The charges included rape, indecent assault, sexual activity with a child, and indecency with a child, out of a total of 37 allegations brought against him. The jury deliberated for more than 12 hours before reaching their verdict. During the trial, Hodder consistently maintained his innocence, claiming that his victims had fabricated their stories or were fantasizing about their experiences. He admitted to having consensual sexual relations with three of the girls when they were aged 16, 17, and 18.

The police investigation into Hodder’s conduct began in 2018, triggered by a report from a 17-year-old girl who accused him of raping her. As the inquiry progressed, an additional eight women came forward, sharing similar accounts of abuse, which painted a disturbing picture of a sustained pattern of exploitation.

Many victims reported that their initial contact with Hodder was through the martial arts club he operated. Some described how they came for massages or Shiatsu sessions, which at first seemed innocent but eventually turned sexual once Hodder removed their clothing. One woman recounted how Hodder would compliment her on her appearance, which later shifted into inappropriate touching and sexual advances. She described feeling uncomfortable, yet believing that such behavior was 'an adult thing,' due to Hodder's persuasive and controlling manner.

Other women detailed how Hodder had touched their breasts or made sexually suggestive remarks from a young age, with one saying he had touched her when she was 15 and told her she need not be ashamed of enjoying it. His victims described him as controlling, with one noting that Hodder would sulk if he didn’t receive enough attention, exploiting their vulnerabilities and exerting dominance over them.

The court heard allegations that Hodder boasted about his grooming abilities, his massages, and his physical toughness, creating an atmosphere of fear and obedience among the girls. Some victims expressed how Hodder’s manipulative nature made them feel powerless, and they felt they had no choice but to comply with his demands.

A prior trial in 2021 was halted midway after Hodder suffered heart problems, which delayed proceedings. During the current trial, his health issues persisted, leading to delays while he received medical treatment in hospital. Despite these setbacks, the court acknowledged the extensive evidence and the pattern of abuse that emerged.

Judge Timothy Rose, presiding over the case, expressed his gratitude to the jury for their dedication and perseverance through the prolonged proceedings. He announced that Hodder would face a prison sentence, with sentencing scheduled for July 22. The judge also stated that Hodder, who suffers from ill-health, would not be granted bail following his convictions, indicating no confidence in how he might react outside custody.

In response to the verdict, Lisa Cassidy, the district crown prosecutor, praised the victims for their bravery in coming forward. She emphasized how Hodder used his role as a martial arts instructor to gain access to children, systematically grooming and abusing them while discouraging them from confiding in others. Cassidy underlined the importance of the police and prosecution’s work in building a strong case and assured victims that justice was being pursued for all those affected.

This case underscores the grave dangers of exploiting positions of trust within community spaces like martial arts clubs. Hodder’s actions have left a profound impact on his victims, and the legal proceedings serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and accountability in safeguarding vulnerable young people.