GORDON HAGUE'S SHOCKING CRIME IN ARBOURTHORNE: DECADES OF PAEDOPHILIA ENDS IN JAIL

In December 2006, a disturbing case unfolded in Sheffield, specifically in the Arbourthorne area, involving the long history of a convicted paedophile named Gordon Hague. The 73-year-old, whose criminal activities spanned nearly five decades, was ultimately sentenced to an indefinite prison term after a harrowing incident where he was found in a compromising situation with an 11-year-old boy.

Police officers responded to a distress call at Hague's residence on Eastern Avenue in Arbourthorne, where they discovered the elderly man in bed with the young boy, both of whom were completely naked. The police action was prompted by concerns raised by the boy's mother, who had become worried after failing to reach her son on his mobile phone. She had initially believed her son was visiting a friend but grew suspicious when he did not return home as expected. Upon visiting Hague's house and finding no response at the door, she called the authorities, leading to the discovery that would have serious legal repercussions for Hague.

Gordon Hague, who had previously been convicted of indecent assault on a boy under 14 back in 1957, was arrested at the scene. During police interviews, Hague admitted to the charges and pleaded guilty to indecent assault. Prosecutor Richard Newbury highlighted that Hague, who is deaf, had been grooming the young boy by providing him with food, videos, and toys over a period of time. On the night of the incident, Hague had also allowed the boy to consume alcohol, further illustrating the disturbing nature of his misconduct.

The court heard that the young victim had made frequent visits to Hague's residence, often telling his mother he was going to see a friend. The mother, concerned about her son's whereabouts, became increasingly anxious when she could not contact him. Her fears were confirmed when she found out about the incident at Hague's house, prompting her to call the police. Hague's defense argued that there was a significant gap of 34 years between his previous offenses and this recent incident, suggesting a complex history of behavior.

During the court proceedings at Sheffield Crown Court, Hague's actions and history were scrutinized. The judge, John Swanson, emphasized the seriousness of Hague's crimes and the danger he posed to society. Hague was sentenced to a minimum of two years in prison, taking into account the 267 days he had already spent in custody. The judge made it clear that upon release, Hague would be prohibited from approaching or communicating with anyone under the age of 16.

Judge Swanson addressed Hague directly, stating, "You are 73. You have until the early 1970s quite an astonishing record of being before the courts for indecent assaults on males under 16 or even 14, the latter being the more common. You are a prolific offender. Sexual assault on a child is a serious sexual offence and I have to consider how dangerous you are to persons in society." The psychological report presented during the trial indicated that Hague had always exhibited paedophilic instincts and posed a significant risk to young boys if released into the community.

Following the sentencing, Hague's neighbors expressed their opinions. Annie Gray, 82, who had known Hague for 34 years, remarked, "I couldn’t say anything bad about him. He’ll die in prison—this will break his heart." Sister Josie Norris, a nun residing on Eastern Avenue, added, "He’s a vulnerable, easily-led old man. He’s going to lose his house. This whole thing’s a nightmare." The case left the community in shock, highlighting the tragic and disturbing consequences of Hague's long history of sexual offenses against minors.