JOHN HODGSON FROM DARLINGTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES AGAINST SCHOOLGIRL IN TEESSIDE

In a case that has shocked the local community, John Hodgson, a 40-year-old resident of Darlington, was sentenced to three years in prison for a series of indecent and sexual assaults committed against a young schoolgirl. The offences, which spanned over a year from November 1998 to November of the following year, came to light after Hodgson was arrested last year, leading to his admission of guilt during court proceedings.

Prosecutor Shaun Dodds presented the case at Teesside Crown Court, detailing how Hodgson had engaged in inappropriate physical contact with the girl. According to Dodds, Hodgson would often touch the girl’s leg and attempt to move his hand towards her private parts, actions that constituted serious breaches of personal safety and trust.

Hodgson faced multiple charges, including three counts of indecent assault and one count of sexual assault. During the hearing, Hodgson pleaded guilty to all charges, acknowledging his misconduct. His defense attorney, Paul Cleasby, addressed the court, describing the offences as being at the lower end of the severity spectrum for indecency crimes, but emphasizing that this did not diminish the gravity of the acts committed.

In a letter submitted to the judge, Hodgson expressed remorse and shame for his actions, seeking to demonstrate his genuine regret. Mr. Cleasby also highlighted Hodgson’s desire to undergo rehabilitative sessions, stating, “He does not want simply to tick a box to say he has done a course. He genuinely does not want to re-offend.”

As part of his sentence, Hodgson was ordered to be placed on the sex offenders’ register and was permanently barred from working with children. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness with which such offences are regarded, with Judge George Moorhouse stating, “I have a duty to ensure that people who behave in this way are deprived of their liberty.” The case underscores the ongoing importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals and holding offenders accountable for their actions.