NEIL LINKHORN SENTENCED IN HORNEDEAN FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE CASE

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Horndean, Neil Linkhorn has been sentenced to a decade behind bars for the heinous sexual offenses committed against two young boys. The crimes, which spanned from 1995 to 1997, involved the abuse of the victims, who were between the ages of 10 and 12 at the time.

Linkhorn, aged 37 at the time of sentencing, was found guilty in Portsmouth Crown Court of multiple counts of indecency with a child, indecent assault, and rape. The court heard that during the period of abuse, the victims would visit Linkhorn’s residence separately to play computer games, a routine that lasted for about a year. It was during this time that Linkhorn, residing on Merchistoun Road in Horndean, began to exploit the trust placed in him by the boys.

Judge Roger Hetherington, presiding over the case, remarked that the victims had initially visited Linkhorn’s home without any apparent issues, but that he suddenly began to abuse them. The judge noted that Linkhorn would sometimes bribe the boys with small sums of money and would threaten them to keep silent about the abuse. The court expressed concern that the children, likely unaware of the full extent of what was happening, continued to return to his home, possibly out of confusion or fear.

During the sentencing, Judge Hetherington read parts of the victims’ statements, which detailed the long-lasting impact of the abuse. The victims, now adults, have struggled with nightmares, depression, difficulties forming relationships, and feelings of loneliness. The judge emphasized that these issues are common among children who grow up under the shadow of such traumatic experiences, and he expressed hope that the conclusion of the case might aid in their healing process.

It was also revealed that around the time of the abuse, Linkhorn was involved in another criminal act—an attempt to forcibly remove a girl aged between 13 and 15 from her vehicle. For this incident, he received a two-year sentence for false imprisonment.

In total, Linkhorn was sentenced to ten years in prison for the recent charges, which include multiple counts of indecency with a child, indecent assault, and rape. The investigation was led by Detective Constable Rebecca Green, who highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by the victims. She stated that the victims have experienced persistent issues with trust and emotional well-being but expressed hope that the legal proceedings would mark a turning point in their recovery.

DC Green also appealed to the public, urging anyone with additional information about Neil Linkhorn or similar allegations to come forward. She emphasized that Hampshire Constabulary remains committed to supporting victims of sexual offenses, regardless of when the crimes occurred. Members of the community are encouraged to contact Hampshire Constabulary confidentially by calling 101 or to report anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

As this case concludes, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the ongoing need to protect vulnerable individuals from predators like Neil Linkhorn, whose actions have left a lasting scar on the lives of his victims and the community of Horndean.