HERBERT HAYMAN FROM HORTON JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST CHILD IN THE 1990S

In a case that has shocked the local community of Horton, Herbert Hayman, a 91-year-old war veteran, has been sentenced to a 15-month prison term after admitting to a series of serious sexual offenses committed against a young girl during the mid-1990s.

The incident involved a disturbing campaign of abuse that spanned over three years, beginning when the victim was only eight years old. The court heard that Hayman, who resides on Newmarket Close in Horton, engaged in inappropriate and indecent acts towards the girl between 1995 and 1998, causing lasting trauma.

Herbert Hayman appeared before Southampton Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to the charges. The court was informed that Hayman claimed the girl had become “sexualised,” which he suggested had prompted his actions. This assertion was met with concern, given the severity of the allegations and the impact on the victim.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Nicholas Rowland acknowledged the difficulty in imposing a custodial sentence on a man of Hayman’s advanced age. Nonetheless, he emphasized that the gravity of the offenses warranted a prison term. The judge stated, “You were a man who was of previous good character, and you are a veteran, having served your country in the Second World War.”

He further noted Hayman’s age and health, expressing understanding of his deteriorating mental state, which was documented in pre-sentence reports. Despite this, Judge Rowland made it clear that the offenses were “too serious” to warrant leniency, and the impact on the victim was profound and ongoing.

Prosecutor Mr. Martin detailed how the assaults took place over a three-year period, causing significant distress to the young girl. In mitigation, defense solicitor Gemma White highlighted that Hayman had been experiencing suicidal thoughts, including an incident just days before sentencing when he visited his son’s house threatening to overdose on prescription medication.

Ms. White also pointed out that Hayman was fully aware of the seriousness of his crimes and had pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity, demonstrating remorse. She requested the court to consider a non-custodial sentence, citing his age and the historical nature of the offenses.

Ultimately, Judge Rowland sentenced Hayman to two concurrent 15-month terms for indecent assault, along with an additional six months for another indecent assault, also to be served concurrently. This resulted in a total sentence of 15 months. Additionally, Hayman is required to sign the sex offenders register for a period of 10 years, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct.

The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Horton, highlighting the importance of justice and safeguarding vulnerable individuals from abuse, regardless of the offender’s age or background.