RHYS HUGHES RETURN FEARS IN SONNING COMMON AFTER RELEASE FROM DARTMOOR JAIL

In September 1998, the small village of Sonning Common found itself gripped by anxiety and concern following the release of Rhys Hughes, a convicted paedophile who had served time for a series of heinous crimes spanning over three decades. Hughes, aged 65 at the time of his release, had been incarcerated at Dartmoor Prison after serving six years of a ten-year sentence. His conviction was for the rape and assault of children of both sexes, with offenses dating back from 1957 to 1991.

Hughes had previously threatened to return to his former home village of Sonning Common, located in Oxfordshire, where he had committed his crimes. One of his victims, who was only four years old at the time of her attack, is now a teenager and continues to reside in the same village. The prospect of Hughes's return sparked fears among residents, with some contemplating vigilante action as a response to the potential threat.

In an effort to prevent any immediate backlash, Hughes changed his plans and agreed to be relocated to a different part of the country. Despite this, police officials have publicly acknowledged that they lack the authority to prevent him from returning to Sonning Common if he chooses to do so in the future. Hughes had refused treatment during his time in prison and showed no remorse for his past actions, further complicating efforts to monitor or rehabilitate him.

Following legislative changes introduced by the government, authorities now have the power to impose restrictions on individuals like Hughes upon their release. However, these new laws only apply to paedophiles sentenced after the legislation's enactment, which occurred three months after Hughes's conviction. Under the terms of the Sex Offenders Register, Hughes is required to notify police of any change in his residence. Residents of Sonning Common will be informed if he plans to return to the village.

Officials have declined to specify the exact location or type of accommodation Hughes has accepted, but it is understood that he will not be housed in a secure facility. Thames Valley police have confirmed that security measures in Sonning Common will remain in place, including a network of safe houses where children can seek refuge if they feel threatened. Police also plan to visit local schools to educate pupils about safety and the dangers posed by strangers.

However, the 24-hour helpline established for victims to report concerns has been discontinued. This service was previously staffed by female officers around the clock. Residents and concerned individuals are advised to contact Childline, a children’s charity, for support and guidance.

Phillip Marples, the head teacher of Sonning Common Primary School, stated that the village remains calm but that the school is actively reviewing its security protocols in collaboration with the local authority. He emphasized that measures to increase vigilance would be implemented if deemed necessary. Many children in the community are aware of the potential threat from strangers and are not overly alarmed by police advice to stay alert, he added, reflecting a community trying to balance vigilance with normalcy.