JOHN BETTS FROM HILTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILDREN IN DERBY

In a case that has left a lasting scar on the community of Hilton, a local pensioner named John Betts was finally brought to justice after a lengthy investigation into his disturbing past. Betts, residing on Broomfield Close in Hilton, was convicted of sexually abusing two young girls, acts that cast a dark shadow over their lives for over three decades.

Betts, now aged 67, faced charges of indecent assault involving girls under the age of 16, with the incidents taking place in Derby. Despite his denial of the allegations, a jury found him guilty after hearing compelling evidence and statements from the victims. The court proceedings revealed the profound and lasting impact of his actions on the two women, who chose to confront their past by attending the trial to witness the sentencing.

During the court session, Jonathan Straw, the prosecutor, read heartfelt statements from both victims, who described the deep emotional scars inflicted by Betts. One woman recounted her childhood trauma, stating, "From my early childhood, I feel he has taken something away from me, taken away my confidence and trust. I thought it was OK for people to abuse me and take control. The physical and emotional scars are there and will never go." She expressed ongoing fears for her own children, revealing how her past abuse has led her to live in constant anxiety, fearing that her children might suffer the same fate. She added, "It has taken years to grow in confidence and I try to put it behind me, but it never goes away. I don’t want to see his face."

The second victim shared her struggles with anxiety and depression, explaining how her past experiences have shaped her current behavior. She said, "If my children are a few minutes late, I go into complete panic mode. I restrict their freedom because of my paranoia." She also expressed her anger and resentment towards Betts, stating, "When I was growing up, I was an angry person, on the defensive all the time. It is as though he has taken everything away from me. I hate him for what he has done in ruining my life. I hope he realises the negative effect he has had on my childhood and the effect on families."

Judge Nigel Godsmark QC presided over the case at Nottingham Crown Court, where he described the victims’ statements as 'eloquent' and poignant. The judge also noted that, under current laws, the sentence could have been more severe, but he was bound by the sentencing guidelines in place at the time of the offences. Ultimately, Betts was sentenced to three years in prison for his crimes, a punishment that reflects the gravity of his actions and the lasting damage caused to his victims. The case has resonated deeply within the community of Hilton, highlighting the importance of justice and the enduring impact of childhood abuse.