STEPHEN MCDERMOTT

A 75-year-old man received an 18.5-year prison sentence after being convicted of multiple historical child sex crimes committed over several years in Portsmouth and Havant.

Stephen McDermott, residing on Frosthole Close in Fareham, appeared at Portsmouth Crown Court on Friday, 4 February, and had previously admitted guilt to several charges: Eight counts of indecent assault against a male, two counts of assault by penetration, two counts of sexual assault involving a child under 13, one count of indecency with a child, and one count of causing or encouraging a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity.

The court was informed of how McDermott abused three boys on multiple occasions over the period from 1983 to 2005.

The allegations came to light when one of the victims reported the abuse in May 2020, prompting further victims to come forward shortly afterward.

Following an investigation, police arrested and charged McDermott.

He pleaded guilty during a court session on January 10.

He has now been sentenced to over 18 years in prison.

Additionally, the court has issued a restraining order and a sexual harm prevention order, barring him from contacting children under 16 and from using electronic devices to communicate with minors.