DAVID HODDER FROM THORNBURY JAILED FOR HISTORIC SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST BOYS

UPDATE: David Hodder passed away in May 2014.

In July 2012, a 77-year-old man from Thornbury was sentenced to 14 years in prison for a series of historic sexual offences against boys that spanned several decades.

David Hodder, of Frome Court, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including three counts of indecency with a child, eight serious sexual assaults, three indecent assaults, and three sexual assaults.

Judge Michael Roach described the offences as "abhorrent" and stated, "These offences are abhorrent. You have blighted (one victim's) life completely. It is clear that your behaviour damaged him in a very severe and permanent way."

The judge also praised the bravery of the complainants and commended police efforts in the investigation.

As part of his sentence, Hodder was barred from working with children and was ordered to register as a sex offender.

Because one of the victims was abused historically, Hodder’s sentencing was under an older regime, requiring him to serve two-thirds of his sentence rather than half.

Detective Constable Rob Carter, who led the case, commented, "Mr. Hodder has played on people's kindness. He has been persistent to gain access to children and has been a skilled groomer for all of his adult life."

Prosecutor James Ward explained that Hodder abused a boy aged between eight and nine, touching him sexually after removing his underwear. "The lad said he was silly. The defendant bought him items to make him forget. The boy thought the presents helped push what happened to the back of his mind," Mr. Ward said.

Concerns about Hodder’s contact with the child led police to interview the boy, who then reported that Hodder, a former TV engineer for Radio Rentals, had sexually abused him.

The second victim, whose abuse came to light after Hodder was stopped for drink-driving, described how Hodder had sexually assaulted him. The victim has since struggled psychologically, finding it difficult to form relationships and intimacy.

The case highlights a disturbing pattern of grooming and abuse by Hodder, who used his position and kindness to exploit vulnerable boys over many years.