NEIL HOPKINSON SHAMES YORK IN BISHOPTHORPE CHILD SEX ABUSE CASE

In a shocking case that has sent ripples through the community of Bishopthorpe and the wider city of York, Neil Hopkinson, a 50-year-old banker, has been convicted of sexually abusing a young boy at his residence. The incident, which took place in early 2010, has not only shattered Hopkinson’s personal life but also tarnished his professional reputation, leading to his current imprisonment and the end of his marriage.

Hopkinson, who held a prominent position managing a portfolio worth £1 billion at a major financial institution in the City, was found guilty after a lengthy legal process. The case was heard at Leeds Crown Court, where the prosecution, led by David Hall, detailed the disturbing events that unfolded at Hopkinson’s large semi-detached house located on MacLagan Road in Bishopthorpe, a suburb of York.

According to court records, the victim, a nine-year-old boy, was staying as a guest at Hopkinson’s home. On the night in question, the child was reportedly awakened by crying and shaking at the bedroom door. The young boy then disclosed that Hopkinson had sexually assaulted him on two separate occasions while he was asleep. The trauma inflicted on the child was described as severe, with the boy having to prepare to testify against Hopkinson in court.

Initially, Hopkinson denied any wrongdoing for a period of fifteen months, maintaining his innocence. However, on the day of his trial in April, he changed his plea and admitted to the sexual assaults. The court subsequently sentenced him to 20 months in prison. Additionally, Hopkinson has been placed on the sex offenders’ register for ten years and is prohibited from working with children in any capacity.

Judge Geoffrey Marson QC addressed Hopkinson directly during sentencing, expressing his bewilderment at the defendant’s actions. “Why you are standing where you are is beyond my understanding. What was going on in your mind I cannot begin to imagine,” the judge stated. He also spoke about the victim, emphasizing the breach of trust and the trauma inflicted. “He was in your home and entitled to your protection, and he was asleep. He knew exactly what was happening, and it must have been a terrifying experience for him. It was a gross breach of trust,” Judge Marson added.

Public records from Companies House reveal that Hopkinson is the sole director of a residents’ property management company, alongside his role as a banker. His legal representative, Taryn Turner, described him as a responsible individual employed in a senior managerial position within the City’s banking sector. She highlighted his control over a substantial debt portfolio and expressed remorse for his actions, stating that Hopkinson was “devastated” and had “buried his head in the sand,” possibly due to the impending catastrophe in his personal life.

Mrs. Turner also mentioned ongoing divorce proceedings between Hopkinson and his wife, which are expected to conclude soon. The court’s findings and the sentencing underscore the gravity of the crime and the profound impact it has had on all parties involved, especially the young victim who was entitled to safety and trust within his own home.