LEEDS AND RETFORD SEX OFFENDER IAN HEWITT CAUGHT WITH CHILD ABUSE IMAGES AND BRAGGED ONLINE

In August 2014, authorities uncovered disturbing evidence of child exploitation linked to Ian Hewitt, a man residing in Leeds with connections to Retford. The investigation was triggered after Hewitt made alarming claims on a gay internet messaging platform, where he boasted about having engaged in sexual activities with boys aged 14 and 15. These online conversations raised immediate concerns among those who interacted with him, prompting police to take action.

Police from Humberside were alerted by an individual who had been in communication with Hewitt and was troubled by the messages he received. Recognizing the potential severity of the situation, officers in Humberside coordinated with West Yorkshire Police to execute a search warrant at Hewitt’s residence located on Commercial Street, Morley, Leeds, on July 7 of that year. During the search, computer equipment was seized for forensic analysis. The examination revealed the presence of ten illegal indecent images of children stored on Hewitt’s devices.

Prosecutor John Bull explained that among these images, two were classified at levels four and five, which are considered the most serious categories of child abuse material. Hewitt was promptly arrested at the scene. During police interviews, he admitted to being involved in the online conversations but claimed that he had exaggerated his claims intentionally to keep the other man interested. Hewitt also acknowledged that the computer used belonged to him but stated that it had been accessed previously by friends and former partners. Despite denying any sexual interest in children, Hewitt was unable to provide a clear explanation for why he had engaged in discussions about child abuse online.

Hewitt pleaded guilty to ten charges related to the possession and creation of indecent images of children. His solicitor, Simon Alexander, highlighted that Hewitt had admitted guilt early in the process and had no prior criminal record. Alexander also noted that Hewitt had been employed by a major supermarket chain for ten years and had taken responsibility by informing his employer after his guilty plea. Currently, Hewitt was not employed and was not claiming benefits.

In sentencing, Judge Sally Cahill, QC, emphasized the gravity of such offenses, stating, “If it wasn’t for people like you, these children would not be subjected to what they are subjected to. Prison is the usual consequence for this type of crime. However, I believe that prison would not provide the necessary treatment to prevent future offending. Therefore, I am considering a community-based order that includes treatment to address your behavior.”

Hewitt was sentenced to a three-year community and supervision order, during which he must adhere to an activity requirement. Additionally, he was ordered to pay costs amounting to £1,500. The judge underscored the importance of treatment over incarceration, aiming to prevent further harm.

Earlier in July 2014, Hewitt had also pleaded guilty to nine counts of making indecent images of children at Leeds Crown Court. The case was adjourned until August 12, when Hewitt was scheduled for sentencing. A probation report was to be prepared to assess his suitability for community-based sanctions. Hewitt was also required to register as a sex offender immediately, reflecting the seriousness of his offenses and the ongoing risk he poses.