HUGH FERGUSON THREATENS TO COOK GIRLS IN THORNABY: SHOCKING ABUSE CASE REVEALED

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Thornaby, Hugh Ferguson, a man aged 77, has been found guilty of a series of heinous sexual offenses committed over a span of more than two decades. The court proceedings, held at Teesside Crown Court, uncovered the extent of Ferguson's disturbing behavior and the threats he made to his young victims, which included frightening threats to cook them in a pie to silence their voices.

Ferguson, who resided on Havilland Way in Thornaby, admitted to seven charges of indecent assault. The court heard that his abuse targeted girls aged between five and 11, with incidents dating back to the late 1980s and continuing into recent years. The severity and duration of his offenses painted a grim picture of predatory behavior that persisted over many years.

One of the most alarming revelations was Ferguson’s threats to kill three young girls in the 1980s, threatening to cook them if they dared to tell their parents about his actions. Such threats were intended to instill fear and silence his victims, further demonstrating his manipulative and dangerous nature.

The court also heard about a specific incident in August of the previous year, where Ferguson lured three nine-year-old girls upstairs in his house to play on his rowing machine and treadmill. During this encounter, he assaulted the girls, adding to the long list of his criminal activities.

Judge Simon Bourne-Arton QC addressed Ferguson directly, emphasizing the gravity of his crimes. He stated, “Over a considerable period of time, certainly since 1988, you have carried out numerous offences of sexual abuse against young girls. The victims started from five to 11, and you have throughout this time shown a very unhealthy, predatory instinct towards young girls; you have shown little or no remorse, and you have throughout sought to blame them.”

The court was informed that Ferguson’s mental health issues, including a diagnosis of vascular dementia and a personality disorder, played a role in his behavior. His defense, represented by Adrian Dent, highlighted that Ferguson had suffered a brain injury years ago, which contributed to his mental state.

Given the severity of his offenses and his mental health condition, Ferguson was sentenced to an indefinite Hospital Order under the Mental Health Act. The judge’s decision reflects the serious concern for public safety and the recognition of Ferguson’s ongoing risk to young girls in the community of Thornaby.