JON INGRAM FROM HARDRICKE CONVICTED FOR ASSAULTING 11-YEAR-OLD BOY DURING SCOUT MEETING IN THE FIVE VALLEYS

In a disturbing incident that took place during a scout gathering in the Five Valleys, Jon Mark Ingram, a 52-year-old scout master residing on Bristol Road in Hardwicke, was found guilty of assaulting an 11-year-old boy under his supervision. The assault occurred on May 20 of this year, during a scheduled scout meeting, and resulted in serious injuries to the young victim.

According to reports, Ingram was responsible for overseeing the scouts at the time of the incident. During the course of the meeting, he inflicted physical harm upon the 11-year-old, leaving the boy with a bloodied nose and ligament damage to his arm. The severity of the injuries prompted an immediate investigation by the county’s specialized Child Abuse Investigation Team (CAIT).

Initially, Ingram entered a plea of not guilty to a charge of common assault by beating. However, after the court proceedings and the presentation of the victim’s testimony at Gloucester Magistrates’ Court, he changed his plea to guilty. This shift in plea underscored the strength of the evidence against him and the seriousness of the offense.

Following the conviction, DC Ian Lord of CAIT issued a statement emphasizing the support provided by the Scout Association throughout the investigation process. He praised their adherence to child protection protocols and highlighted the rarity of such incidents within the organization.

“Ingram’s behaviour towards this 11-year-old child in his care was incredible,” DC Lord remarked. “He was trusted to look after the scouts but chose instead to assault one of them during the meeting. I would like to add that this is a rare case and the response of other leaders present during this assault was both appropriate and protective.”

As part of his sentencing, Jon Ingram was ordered to pay a fine of £500, along with £250 in compensation to the victim. Additionally, he was required to cover court costs amounting to £800 and a victim surcharge of £15. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and safeguarding within youth organizations, especially in trusted roles such as that of a scout master.