KEITH MATTHEWS: RYDE PAEDOPHILE SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES

A 71-year-old man, widely known as the Wootton Bridge Paedophile, Keith Matthews, has been handed a significant prison sentence of 18 years after being convicted on eight separate charges related to historical sexual offences committed against three young victims. These offences took place over an extended period from 1994 to 2012, primarily in the towns of Ryde and East Cowes, both located on the Isle of Wight.

On July 14, 2022, authorities received a crucial report from a third party concerning a woman aged 26 at the time, who revealed that she had suffered physical, sexual, and psychological abuse at the hands of Keith Matthews before she turned 16. This initial disclosure prompted further investigations, which uncovered additional victims, including a woman now aged 28, who had been subjected to Matthews' abuse during her childhood. The investigation revealed a disturbing pattern of misconduct spanning nearly two decades.

Following Matthews' arrest on July 28, 2022, law enforcement officials continued their inquiries, which led to the emergence of another victim—a woman aged 42—who came forward to disclose that she had also been sexually assaulted by Matthews when she was a minor. The offences, as established through detailed police work, occurred between 1994 and 2012, with incidents reported in both Ryde and East Cowes. The case was thoroughly examined, and on Monday, April 22, 2024, Keith Matthews was formally charged with multiple counts of sexual offences against minors.

After a comprehensive thirteen-day trial at Newport Crown Court, Matthews was found guilty on April 4, 2025. The court heard evidence of numerous offences, including indecent assault, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, rape, assault by penetration, and sexual assault. The victims ranged in age from as young as 8 to 15 years old at the time of the incidents. Specific charges included indecent assault of a girl aged 12-13, sexual activity with a child aged 8-9, rape of a girl aged 14-15, and multiple instances of assault by penetration and sexual assault involving victims aged 13-14.

On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, Keith Matthews was sentenced to a total of 18 years in prison, a punishment reflecting the severity and duration of his crimes. Police officer DC Dan Cooke expressed his support for the victims, praising their bravery in coming forward and emphasizing the importance of justice. He also urged other victims who may still be silent to contact the police when they feel ready. Authorities highlighted the availability of support services such as the Hampton Trust, Child Line, and NSPCC, which provide assistance to victims of abuse. They also provided various resources, including online reporting tools, Crimestoppers, and specialized support pages, to encourage victims and witnesses to come forward.

Anyone affected by this case or similar incidents is strongly encouraged to report their concerns to the police via the non-emergency number 101, through online channels, or anonymously through Crimestoppers. The authorities reaffirm their commitment to protecting victims and ensuring that offenders like Keith Matthews are held accountable for their actions.