DAVID FLETCHER JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS IN HULL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Hull, David Fletcher, a 64-year-old former Royal Marine and well-known author, has been sentenced to nine years in prison following his conviction on multiple counts of sexual assault involving young girls. The court proceedings revealed a deeply troubling pattern of abuse committed by Fletcher, who had previously maintained a clean criminal record.

Fletcher, who gained notoriety not only for his military service but also for his adventurous spirit and authorship, had been actively involved in engaging with schoolchildren across Hull. His visits were ostensibly to promote his bestselling book, Hunted, which recounts his harrowing escape from a bear in the Alaskan wilderness. During these visits, Fletcher was seen as a charismatic figure, sharing stories of his mountaineering exploits and survival skills. However, beneath this facade, he was secretly perpetrating heinous acts against vulnerable young girls.

The crimes took place within the city of Hull, where Fletcher had been invited to speak at various schools. The victims included two girls aged five and one girl aged eight. The court heard that Fletcher used manipulative tactics, including bribery with money, to gain the trust of these young children. When questioned by police, Fletcher denied the allegations, claiming that the girls and their families were lying and attempting to tarnish his reputation.

During the sentencing at Hull Crown Court, Judge Jeremy Richardson QC did not hold back in his condemnation of Fletcher. He described the former Marine as “wicked and depraved,” emphasizing the severity of his actions. The judge stated, “You debauched each of these three young children. Two of the young girls have been adversely affected. You have caused them to give evidence and have effectively accused them of telling malicious lies about you whilst you have masqueraded on bogus respect.”

Judge Richardson further condemned Fletcher’s character, asserting, “You are a thoroughly wicked and depraved individual. You thoroughly deserve this sentence. Justice has now been done.” Fletcher was also ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life, a measure that underscores the gravity of his crimes and the community’s need for ongoing protection.

Fletcher’s background is as diverse as it is impressive. He authored a book that sold over 20,000 copies, detailing his epic journey to climb Mount Hess in Alaska in 1980. His mountaineering career was initiated during his seven years of service with the Marines in the 1960s, after which he dedicated two decades to climbing some of the world’s most challenging peaks. His adventurous pursuits extended beyond writing and climbing; he provided expert advice on Hollywood film sets, including the mountain-based thriller “The Eiger Sanction,” starring Clint Eastwood, after successfully scaling the mountain himself.

In addition to his outdoor pursuits, Fletcher once worked as a foreman for Hull City Council. His life, marked by daring exploits and literary achievements, has now been overshadowed by the serious criminal charges and his subsequent imprisonment. The community of Hull can only hope that justice has been served and that the victims can begin the process of healing from the trauma inflicted upon them by this once-adventurous figure.