ARTHUR HUGHES KIDSGROVE SEX OFFENDER FINED FOR LATE POLICE NOTIFICATION

In April 2017, Arthur Hughes, a registered sex offender from Kidsgrove, faced legal consequences after failing to notify the police of his whereabouts within the required timeframe. Hughes, aged 66, has a long-standing criminal history that includes a conviction at Liverpool Crown Court in 1990 for serious sexual offenses, such as rape and engaging in sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13. As a result of this conviction, he was placed on the sex offenders' register for life, a measure designed to monitor and restrict individuals deemed a significant risk to the public.

Despite his registration, the North Staffordshire Justice Centre heard that Hughes did not adhere to the mandatory annual notification process. Specifically, he was three days late in reporting his current details to the police station. The court was informed that in 2015, Hughes notified authorities on November 11, and in 2016, he did so on November 14. The delay in 2016 was the subject of the court's concern, as it represented a breach of the legal obligation to update authorities promptly.

During police interviews, Hughes explained that he believed he had made the notification on time, but later realized he was mistaken. He admitted to the error and pleaded guilty to the charge of failing to comply with the requirements of the sex offenders' register. Prosecutor Omar Majid emphasized the importance of timely notifications, stating, "He has to annually notify the police of his circumstances and details. In 2015 he notified on November 11. But in 2016 he notified on November 14. He was three days late in terms of his notification in 2016."

In his defense, Zoe Leese, representing Hughes, argued that the breach was not deliberate. She stated, "It was not a deliberate breach. He has not meant to mislead anybody." The magistrates ultimately decided to impose a fine on Hughes, amounting to £140. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £85 in court costs and a £30 surcharge, reflecting the court's stance on compliance with legal obligations for sex offenders.