RUSSELL HEPWORTH SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST TEEN GIRLS IN HUTTON CRANSWICK AND DRIFFIELD

In April 2010, a disturbing case of online predatory behavior and subsequent criminal acts involving a man from Hutton Cranswick came to light, highlighting serious concerns about the safety of young girls in the area.

Russell Hepworth, aged 31, was found guilty of engaging in sexual activities with two underage girls whom he had contacted through Facebook. The first incident occurred in April 2008 at Driffield train station, where Hepworth targeted a 13-year-old girl. He managed to persuade her to accompany him to his residence, and while police were actively searching for her, he took her to his home and engaged in sexual activity with her. The girl, whose name has not been disclosed, did not initially reveal what had transpired during the encounter, possibly out of fear or confusion.

Despite being warned by law enforcement authorities to cease all contact with her, Hepworth continued to communicate with the girl via Facebook, demonstrating a blatant disregard for police instructions and the safety of the young victim. His persistent contact raised further alarm, especially considering the ongoing investigation.

In December 2008, the criminal behavior escalated when Hepworth invited a 14-year-old girl, a friend of the first victim, to his flat located in Eastgate, Driffield. During this visit, he served the girls alcohol, which likely impaired their judgment. While one girl was naked, Hepworth engaged in sexual activity with her, with her friend present and watching. This act of exploitation was uncovered when police found the two girls in Driffield town center, where they were subsequently arrested for being drunk and disorderly.

Following a thorough trial at Hull Crown Court, a jury convicted Hepworth on two counts of sexual activity with a child. The presiding judge, Mr. Justice Penry-Davy, sentenced him to three years in prison. Additionally, Hepworth was penalized with an extra 14 days for contempt of court after he swore at a police officer as he was leaving the courtroom, an act deemed unacceptable and disrespectful.

During his sentencing, the judge emphasized the seriousness of the offenses, acknowledging that Hepworth had no prior history of sex offending and that his actions did not involve sophisticated grooming. Nonetheless, he underscored that the law is designed to protect children from both their own vulnerabilities and predatory adults. The judge stated, “This offending is regarded as serious,” reflecting the gravity of the crimes committed against the young girls.

As part of his sentence, Hepworth was issued a Sex Offenders’ Prevention Order. This order prohibits him from working with children under 16, whether paid or voluntary, and restricts him from having custody, care, or control of any female under 16. He is also barred from sleeping at any premises where female children under 16 reside. Furthermore, Hepworth is forbidden from making contact with females under 16 through any means, including the internet, telephone, or face-to-face interactions. He is required to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to prevent further offenses.