GARY HASTINGS, EX-PCSO FROM HULL AND IMMINGHAM, SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Hull and Immingham, former police community support officer Gary Hastings has been sentenced to a decade behind bars for serious child sex offences. The 48-year-old, residing on Wright Street in Hull, admitted to and pleaded guilty last month at York Crown Court to seven separate counts involving sexual activities with two underage boys.

Judge Stephen Ashurst, presiding over the case, did not hold back in describing Hastings as a “predatory paedophile,” emphasizing the gravity of his actions. Hastings, who previously served as a PCSO in Immingham, North East Lincolnshire, and was also a foster carer, had resigned from the Humberside Police force after being suspended amid the allegations.

The offences in question occurred over a period stretching from November 2007 to August 2010. The judge highlighted the “extremely serious” nature of these crimes, which involved offending against two boys who were clearly vulnerable and defenseless. The impact on the victims was also a focal point during sentencing. Referring specifically to Hastings’ first victim, Judge Ashurst stated, “He was scared and confused. And in his own words… you completely messed up his life.” The judge further noted that the victim now feels “acutely embarrassed and ashamed” as a result of Hastings’ actions.

While Hastings denied being sexually attracted to the boys, the court found that the fact they were underage was a significant factor in his sexual makeup. The defendant also denied allegations of causing or inciting child prostitution or pornography, but these charges were allowed to remain on file, indicating they were not dismissed but not actively prosecuted at this stage.

Humberside Police expressed their support for the sentence and acknowledged the early guilty plea. Superintendent Ray Higgins, head of the force’s professional standards branch, commented, “I recognise that Gary Hastings pleaded guilty at a very early stage and so has prevented his victims from being put through the traumatic experience of a lengthy trial.” He added, “Nevertheless, it was his appalling abuse of trust that led to these young men becoming victims, and no doubt their experiences will live with them for the rest of their lives.”

Superintendent Higgins also provided some background on Hastings’ employment history, stating that he worked for Humberside Police from 2008 until 2011, having undergone the necessary vetting procedures before his appointment. Hastings was suspended from duty in August 2011 and subsequently resigned in January of the following year.

Concluding his statement, Mr. Higgins reassured the public that Humberside Police takes allegations of misconduct by its staff very seriously. “We strive to ensure that any inappropriate behaviour, whether criminal or otherwise, is dealt with robustly,” he affirmed, underscoring the force’s commitment to maintaining public trust and safety.