PETER ALDERSON FROM WOODFORD GUILTY OF ABUSING TEENAGE BOYS DURING SCOUT CAMP IN LONDON

In December 2004, a disturbing case involving a former police officer from Woodford Green, Essex, came to light, revealing a pattern of sexual abuse against two teenage boys during a scouting trip. Peter Alderson, who had served as a Metropolitan Police officer, was convicted of multiple sex offenses committed over a span of six years, from 1992 to 1998, while he was actively involved as a scout leader.

London's Southwark Crown Court heard harrowing details of the abuse, including an incident where Alderson assaulted one of the boys inside his sleeping bag. The court was informed that the two victims, aged 15 and 16 at the time, had tried to resist the advances, with one of the boys attempting to push Alderson’s hand away during the assault. Despite their efforts, Alderson continued to exploit his position of trust and authority.

Peter Alderson, aged 38 at the time of sentencing, was married and a father of three children. He had been a police officer for the Redbridge borough, serving for 19 years before his arrest in June 2004. Following his arrest, he resigned from the Metropolitan Police in October of the same year. The court heard that Alderson had previously held the position of Assistant County Commissioner within the Scout Movement, a role that involved significant responsibility and trust.

Judge Paul Dodgson delivered a stern sentence, condemning Alderson for betraying the trust placed in him by the community and the scouting organization. The judge emphasized that Alderson’s actions undermined the core values of the Scout Movement, which is meant to promote safety, learning, and support for young people. The judge remarked, “Parents send their sons to Scout Movement in the belief that they will learn values and skills in a safe and supportive environment. Actions such as yours strike the heart of the movement.”

As part of his punishment, Alderson was sentenced to three and a half years in prison. Upon release, he will be subject to a four-year license period, during which he must adhere to strict conditions. Additionally, he has been placed on the sex offenders register and is prohibited from working with children for the next 15 years.

Det Insp Mick Thurley, the lead investigator from the Child Abuse Investigating Command, commented on the case, stating, “Alderson abused his position of trust, and we are grateful that he admitted his guilt, which spared his victims from the trauma of reliving their ordeal in court.” The case highlights the importance of vigilance within organizations that work closely with children and the devastating impact of betrayal by trusted adults.