FREMANDING PAEDOPHILE MICHAEL HEWITT SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS FOR ABUSE IN SURREY AND DEVON

In a case that has shocked the local communities, Michael John Hewitt, a 71-year-old man now residing in Fremington, Devon, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 15 years after being found guilty of multiple counts of child sexual abuse. The crimes, which spanned several decades, involved the exploitation of vulnerable young girls within the Surrey area, where Hewitt was previously a member of the Jehovah’s Witness congregation.

Hewitt’s criminal activities came to light after a detailed investigation by the Child Abuse and Sexual Offences Command. The court heard that Hewitt, who once lived in Wallington, used his position of trust within the religious community to prey on three young girls, all under the age of 16 at the time of the abuse. The abuse reportedly began when two of the victims were as young as five years old, and it continued over many years, often taking place in Hewitt’s home and the victims’ residences. These acts went undetected by family members, allowing him to carry out his heinous acts in secrecy.

Following his move from Surrey to Devon, Hewitt’s past crimes remained hidden until January 11, 2016, when two of the victims confided in a family member about the abuse. This disclosure prompted the family member to contact the police, leading to Hewitt’s arrest later that month. He was released on bail while authorities continued their investigation.

Further inquiries by detectives eventually identified a third victim, who came forward after being informed that Hewitt was under investigation for similar offences. In May 2017, Hewitt faced formal charges, including eleven counts of indecency with three girls under 16. Although he was acquitted of three of these charges, the remaining convictions resulted in his sentencing.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Flahive described Hewitt as a significant risk to children and labeled him a dangerous offender. As part of his sentence, Hewitt will be placed on the sex offenders register for life, and he will be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a Restraining Order to prevent any further contact with potential victims.

Hewitt’s case underscores the importance of vigilance within communities and the need for thorough investigations into allegations of child abuse, especially when the perpetrator holds a position of trust. The court’s decision aims to protect vulnerable children and serve justice for the victims who endured years of suffering in silence.