SCOUT ANTHONY SEYMOUR AND MICHAEL DEACON IN PORTSMOUTH FOR CHILD ABUSE CASE

In February 2001, a man was sentenced to three years in prison for sexually abusing an 11-year-old boy while he was part of an alternative Scouting group.

Anthony Seymour, aged 55 and residing in Brighton, appeared before Portsmouth Crown Court for sentencing after being convicted in January of indecently assaulting the young boy.

Seymour was also found guilty of indecently assaulting another boy who was under 16 years old. His co-accused, Michael Deacon, aged 31 from Winchester, received an 18-month prison sentence for his role in the abuse of the 11-year-old boy. Both men were acquitted of rape charges in the earlier trial.

Judge David Thelwood, who acknowledged Seymour's prior convictions for indecent assault dating back to the 1960s, remarked: "Your past has not done you any credit. There are gaps showing you can stay out of trouble but apparently you are susceptible to relapses."

Regarding Deacon, the judge stated: "There was a serious breach of trust on your part, not only with your colleagues but also with the father of the child and the child himself, who placed his trust in you."

Following their release from prison, both Seymour and Deacon will be subject to supervision orders. Seymour will be on the Sex Offenders Register for life, while Deacon will remain on it for ten years.