SIMON HAYDEN FROM RENO FOUND GUILTY OF REPEATEDLY RAPING GIRL UNDER 10 IN CROYDON

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community, Simon Hayden, a man from Reno, was convicted of multiple heinous crimes involving a young girl under the age of ten. The offences took place primarily at a residence in New Addington, Croydon, during the years 2017 and 2018. Hayden, aged 28 at the time of the trial, was found guilty after a comprehensive court process held at Croydon Crown Court.

According to court records, Hayden was known to the victim, though they were not related. The court heard that he exploited the trust placed in him by the young girl, taking advantage of moments when they were alone together. The crimes committed by Hayden included a series of serious sexual offences, which have left a lasting impact on the victim and her family.

Among the charges he faced were one count of raping a girl under 13, three counts of assaulting a girl under 13 by penetration, and three counts of inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity. Additionally, Hayden was convicted of one count of assaulting a girl under 13 by touching and six counts of making indecent photographs of a child. These charges reflect a pattern of predatory behavior that spanned over a year and involved multiple forms of abuse.

The case came to light on October 4, 2018, when the young girl confided in her mother about the abuse she had endured. Her disclosure prompted an immediate report to the Metropolitan Police. An investigation was swiftly launched by detectives from the South Area Child Abuse Investigation Team. The police worked diligently to gather evidence, which included forensic analysis of Hayden-Reno’s phone. During this search, investigators uncovered indecent images of children, further implicating him in the crimes.

Hayden-Reno was arrested three days after the initial report and was interviewed by police. During questioning, he denied the allegations. However, the evidence collected, including statements from the victim and forensic findings, led to his formal charging on May 5, 2022. The young girl received support from specialist officers and various professional agencies dedicated to helping victims of such crimes, ensuring her and her family received the necessary care and assistance.

Given the severity of the offences and the vulnerability of the victim, authorities emphasized that a meticulous and rigorous investigation was essential to secure a conviction. Hayden-Reno is scheduled to be sentenced later this year, with the court likely to impose a significant prison term for his actions. The case highlights the importance of vigilance and swift action in protecting children from sexual predators and ensuring justice is served.