MATTHEW ALDER FROM NEWBURY, THATCHAM, AND SOUTHEND ARRESTED FOR SEX OFFENSES AND SHPO VIOLATIONS

In February 2021, a serious incident involving a convicted sex offender came to light in the West Berkshire area, raising concerns about child safety and compliance with legal restrictions. Matthew James Alder, aged 38, was taken into custody following allegations that he had allowed a child to stay in his home, an act that potentially breaches the terms of his Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).

The case was brought before Reading Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, February 3, where Alder appeared to face multiple charges related to his previous convictions and ongoing legal obligations. At the time of his arrest, Alder was residing at Southend Road in Bradfield Southend, but his recent addresses included Lyon Close in Thatcham and Sycamore Rise in Newbury, indicating a history of moving within the West Berkshire region.

It was established that Alder had been subject to the SHPO since 2013, a legal measure designed to restrict his activities and prevent further offenses. The latest allegations against him involved failing to notify authorities that a child had stayed at his residence in Bradfield Southend for a period exceeding 12 hours. This omission is considered a breach of the conditions set out in his SHPO.

Furthermore, Alder was accused of neglecting to inform authorities about his change of address from Lyon Close and subsequently from Sycamore Rise, which is a violation of the reporting requirements imposed on individuals under such orders. Additional charges included failing to produce his computer and iPhone when requested by law enforcement officials, hindering investigations into his activities.

The alleged offenses spanned several locations, including Newbury, Thatcham, and Bradfield Southend, and occurred between May 13, 2018, and February 8, 2019. These dates suggest a prolonged period during which Alder may have been non-compliant with legal restrictions and reporting obligations.

During the hearing, Alder was legally represented, and the magistrates informed him that the case could not proceed further on that day. All five charges were adjourned to a later date for further proceedings. Meanwhile, Alder was released on unconditional bail, allowing him to remain free pending the next steps in the legal process. The case highlights ongoing concerns about the monitoring and management of convicted sex offenders within the community, especially those with active restrictions such as the SHPO.