STRATFORD MAN DAVID HUTCHINGS SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES AGAINST BOYS AT WINTERFOLD HOUSE SCHOOL

In a case that has shocked the local community, David Hutchings, a 73-year-old former deputy headteacher from Stratford, was sentenced to four and a half years in prison at Worcester Crown Court for a series of serious sexual offences committed against young boys during the 1980s.

Hutchings, who resided at Swan Court in Stratford, had previously pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including four counts of indecent assault of a child under 14 and one count of gross indecency with a child under 16. These admissions came during an earlier hearing, setting the stage for the sentencing that took place yesterday.

The court proceedings revealed that Hutchings committed these heinous acts while serving as deputy headteacher at Winterfold House School, located in Chaddesley Corbett. The offences spanned several years in the early 1980s and involved two boys who were students at the boarding school. The school, known for its residential program, was a place where vulnerable children were entrusted to staff members, making the crimes particularly disturbing.

According to court reports, Hutchings engaged in inappropriate and criminal behavior towards the two boys, both aged 13 at the time. One of the victims testified that Hutchings had entered his bed, cuddled him, and kissed him, actions that constituted indecent assault and gross indecency. The other victim described how Hutchings had put his hand under his pyjamas and kissed him, further illustrating the pattern of predatory conduct.

During the hearing, it was noted that Hutchings appeared in court walking with the aid of a stick, indicating possible health issues. A pre-sentence report was ordered, and it was also mandated that Hutchings register immediately as a sex offender, a legal requirement for individuals convicted of such offences.

Despite the gravity of his crimes, the court acknowledged that Hutchings was of previous good character, which may have influenced the sentencing decision. Judge Robert Juckes, QC, emphasized the seriousness of the offences, stating that they were punishable by a prison sentence. The judge also noted that one of the victims wished to provide a victim impact statement to describe how the offences had affected him.

Hutchings was granted bail and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on April 27. The case has left a lasting impact on the community and highlights the importance of safeguarding children from abuse, especially in educational settings where trust is paramount.