BARRY HOOD FROM WESTON SEES SENTENCE REDUCED AFTER CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN LONDON

In a recent development that has sparked concern and controversy, Barry Hood, a resident of Weston, has had his prison sentence significantly reduced by the Court of Appeal in London, despite being convicted of serious child sex offenses. Hood, who resides on Stanley Grove in Weston, was initially sentenced to an indefinite term for public protection after admitting to three separate charges of child sexual abuse last November. The severity of his crimes and his prior convictions had led Judge Carol Hagen to impose a minimum term of five years before he could even be considered for parole.

Hood’s criminal history is marked by disturbing offenses dating back to 1982 and 1998, involving indecent behavior around children. His latest crimes involved the sexual assault of a seven-year-old girl over a two-day period, during which he lured her into his flat under the pretense of helping him move furniture. Instead, he subjected her to repeated sexual abuse, actions that were only halted when the girl’s stepmother unexpectedly entered the flat and caught him with his pants down facing the young victim. Hood’s response to her confrontation was a remorseful admission: “I know, I know, I thought I could cope with it, but I can’t.”

Prosecutor James Ward described Hood as posing a ‘serious risk of sexual harm to children,’ emphasizing the danger he represented to the community. Hood pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including sexual assault, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and producing indecent images of children. The court was informed that Hood’s previous convictions included an assault on a girl of similar age and indecent exposure to two young girls.

In January 2011, Hood was again sentenced to an indefinite term after he sexually abused the same young girl in his Weston flat. The abuse involved multiple incidents over two days, during which Hood manipulated and assaulted the child, culminating in the discovery by her stepmother. Hood’s actions prompted the court to impose a sentence that mandated he serve at least five years before being eligible for parole, reflecting the gravity of his offenses and the risk he posed.

Despite the serious nature of his crimes, three senior judges at the Court of Appeal recently decided that Hood’s original sentence was excessively harsh. They agreed to reduce his minimum tariff by approximately one-third, a decision that has raised concerns among child protection advocates and the community. The judges acknowledged Hood’s willingness to confront his condition, but critics argue that such reductions may undermine efforts to protect vulnerable children from repeat offenders.

Hood’s case continues to attract media attention, highlighting the ongoing debate over sentencing policies for sex offenders and the importance of safeguarding children from predatory individuals like him. The case remains a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals with a history of sexual offenses and the need for vigilant legal and social measures to prevent future harm.