ANDREW HOPKINSON'S SHOCKING SEX OFFENCES IN SKIPTON REVEALED

In January 2014, Bradford Crown Court heard a disturbing case involving Andrew Hopkinson, a 41-year-old man from Byron Street, Skipton, who admitted to committing a series of heinous sexual offences against a young boy over two decades ago. The court was informed that Hopkinson, during his teenage years, engaged in repeated acts of abuse against a child aged between six and nine years old. The abuse took place in various locations, including a loft bedroom and a field, where Hopkinson subjected the young victim to sexual assault multiple times.

Prosecutor Nick Askins detailed that these offences occurred when Hopkinson was between the ages of 13 and 16, and the victim was significantly younger. Hopkinson's actions were not only abusive but also accompanied by threats of violence; he threatened to kill the boy if he ever disclosed the abuse. The court was told that the victim, who has since moved away from the region many years ago, endured a traumatic experience that left lasting scars.

Hopkinson pleaded guilty to eight counts of indecent assault and three counts of making threats to kill. In sentencing, he received a two-year prison term, which was suspended for two years. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 300 hours of unpaid community work and was subjected to a three-month electronically monitored curfew.

During police interviews, Hopkinson claimed that his abusive behavior was driven by malice and revenge, stemming from his own history of being sexually molested as a child. His defense lawyer, Robin Frieze, stated that Hopkinson had immediately admitted to the offences and had since led a responsible, almost blameless life.

Judge Jonathan Rose condemned Hopkinson's actions, describing them as a “disgusting, appalling and protracted catalogue of sexual offences against a very young child.” The judge emphasized the terror and shock the victim must have experienced, especially given the threats Hopkinson made to silence him. The case highlights the enduring impact of such abuse and the importance of justice for victims.