September 2015 Wiltshire pervert jailed for string of child sexual abuse offences A pervert has been jailed after abusing several children over a number of years. Derek Packham has been jailed for eight and a half years, with another five years on extended licence after he pleaded guilty to a string of sex offences against several children over a number of years. Swindon Crown Court heard how Packham, now 50 and living in Chippenham, abused a group of young children at parties held at his home in Corsham. He pleaded guilty to nine counts of sexual assault, nine counts of sexual activity with a child, one count of inciting a child to commit sexual activity of making indecent images of children and one count of having indecent images on his phone. The mother of one of the victims of Corsham paedophile Derek Packham has said she is ‘disgusted, hurt and betrayed’ that a family friend could carry out such abuse. Packham was jailed for eight and a half years by a judge at Swindon Crown Court – but the victims’ families said the effects would last a life time. “As a mother I feel disgusted, hurt and betrayed that he abused my son, Derek Packham was a family man, someone I trusted to supervise my child whilst he was in his care. “My family will never get over this dreadful crime. Wiltshire Police have done an amazing job, they have supported us throughout, and I would encourage any further victims to contact the police as they will deal with you compassionately,” she added. Another parent said Packham was a ‘dangerous’ man. “I feel glad that Derek Packham has pleaded guilty and that justice has been served,” they said. “He is a dangerous man, and he not only abused my son but other children. My son was brave and talked about the sexual assault, I hope as a family we can now move forward but we will never forget,” they added. And a third parent thanked police for the way they handled the case. “I am glad Derek Packham has pleaded guilty but it does not take away the hurt and pain he has caused my family,” she said. “I pray Derek Packham is never allowed to abuse anymore children. My son had a lot of courage to talk to the police; the abuse has had a major affect on my son. I would like to thank Wiltshire Police for all their support,” she added. Following the sentencing of Derek Packham, Detective Constable Julia Dickson from Wiltshire Police said: “Wiltshire Police welcome today’s sentencing, as it reflects the seriousness of these offences and the impact they have on the children involved. “Derek Packham preyed on his young victims; he became their friend, he groomed them by purchasing them gifts and providing alcohol, he gained the children’s trust. “His actions have had a huge impact on these children – local agencies will be working hard to give his victims as much support as possible while they come to terms with what he did to them. “Wiltshire Police would like to thank each of the victims for their bravery in coming forward and recounting what is obviously a very distressing and traumatic time in their lives.