HATFIELD SEX OFFENDER ADDISON HICKMAN SENTENCED TO 21 YEARS FOR CAMPAIGN OF ABUSE

In a case that has shocked the community of Hatfield, Addison Hickman, a 61-year-old man with no fixed address, has been handed a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of a series of serious sexual offences committed over a span of five years. The sentencing took place at St Albans Crown Court on Monday, following a unanimous verdict by the jury earlier this year that found Hickman guilty of multiple counts of sexual misconduct.

Judge Philip Grey described Hickman’s actions as “a campaign of sexual offending,” emphasizing the severity and repeated nature of his crimes. The majority of these offences occurred within the town of Hatfield, a detail that resonated deeply with the local community. During the proceedings, one of Hickman’s victims delivered a poignant statement read aloud in court, stating: “He used me in every way possible and took my childhood away.” This powerful testimony underscored the devastating impact Hickman’s actions had on the victims’ lives.

The offences ceased only after police apprehended Hickman in 2017. Throughout the trial, Hickman maintained his innocence, denying any wrongdoing despite the overwhelming evidence against him. Judge Grey addressed the court, highlighting the profound effects of Hickman’s crimes. He remarked, “The impact of your offending has been severe. [One of the victims] has self-harmed and [another of them] has been greatly affected – she knows she did nothing wrong and knows the fault lies with you. I hope they can live lives not constantly corroded by thoughts of you.”

In addition to the emotional trauma inflicted, the judge pointed out that Hickman posed a significant risk of reoffending. Describing him as dangerous, Judge Grey noted that Hickman had deliberately created opportunities to commit further offences and had shown no remorse for his actions. Despite suffering from pancreatitis, Hickman’s health issues did not prevent him from continuing his offending behavior.

Hickman was sentenced to a total of 21 years in prison on 16 counts of various sexual offences. The court also stipulated that he must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence, which amounts to a minimum of 13 years, before he can be considered for parole. Additionally, Hickman was subjected to a sexual harm prevention order, which restricts him from having unsupervised contact with children under the age of 16. He is only permitted to communicate with minors under strict conditions, such as with the approval of a responsible adult. The order does not prohibit incidental or unavoidable contact with children, but it aims to prevent any further harm.

Furthermore, Hickman has been explicitly banned from approaching or contacting any of his victims. Throughout the proceedings, Judge Grey paid tribute to the dignity and resilience of those affected, acknowledging their courage in giving evidence and facing the court. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals and the justice system’s commitment to holding offenders accountable for their actions.