ADAM HEWITT BRADFORD SEX OFFENDER SENTENCED FOR ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRLS

In March 2007, Bradford Crown Court heard a disturbing case involving Adam Hewitt, a 27-year-old man from Bradford who was convicted of heinous sexual offenses against young girls. Hewitt, residing on Fairfax Avenue in the Bierley area of Bradford, was found guilty of raping a ten-year-old girl and sexually abusing three other girls aged nine or younger. The court was told that Hewitt's actions have left lasting scars on his victims, with one young girl still experiencing nightmares and emotional trauma as a result of the abuse.

According to court reports, Hewitt engaged in a series of predatory acts. He stripped himself naked and forcibly lay on top of one of the girls, compelling her to perform a sexual act on him, which legally constituted rape. The assault was not an isolated incident; a few days later, Hewitt again dragged the same girl into his bedroom, pulled down his trousers and underwear, and once more laid on top of her. Fortunately, the girl managed to escape from his grasp during this second encounter.

Further evidence presented in court revealed that Hewitt had exposed himself to other young girls and had also used his computer to display pornographic images for their viewing. For legal reasons, none of the victims could be publicly identified, but their bravery in giving evidence was highly praised by Judge Christopher Prince. The judge commended the victims for their courage and resilience in facing their attacker and sharing their experiences.

During the proceedings, victim impact statements were read aloud. One girl described how she continues to suffer from nightmares, waking up shouting and screaming, and expressed her loss of trust in others. She stated, “I cannot properly get it out of my head but at least I know he’s going to prison, I will have less nightmares now.” Another victim, once described as “outspoken and lively,” was now terrified of being alone, illustrating the profound and lasting impact of Hewitt’s actions.

Following the sentencing, the father of one of the victims, who also remains unnamed for legal reasons, expressed his feelings: “We are pleased with the result of the case but we wish we hadn’t had to be here in the first place. It is a horrible situation for a parent to be in.”

Detective Constable Neil Sharpe of Bradford South CID, who led the investigation, commented on the case’s emotional toll and its resolution. He said, “The outcome of this difficult and emotional investigation was extremely satisfying for the families and, more so, for the children themselves. This has been an unforgivable experience. Nevertheless, I hope the result will help them with the support needed to live their lives to the full.”

Hewitt’s defense lawyer, Gerald Hendron, maintained that Hewitt still denied the allegations and claimed he had been “set up.” However, Judge Prince dismissed these claims, stating that Hewitt had been convicted based on “absolutely compelling” evidence. The judge also remarked that it was not uncommon for offenders to deny their crimes initially and urged Hewitt to accept responsibility to begin addressing his issues.

In closing, Judge Prince praised the police officers involved in the case and expressed hope that the conviction would encourage other victims of sexual abuse to come forward. He also commended the young victims for their bravery, noting that they might only fully realize their strength and courage as they grow older.