October 2011 Security guard who ‘groomed’ mother to get to daughter is jailed for nine years A SECURITY guard who “groomed” a single mum to prey on her daughter has been jailed after his victim recognised him working in a city medical centre years later. Kenneth Hamilton, 49, has been jailed for nine years after sexually abusing a girl whose mother he was seeing at the time of the offences. He was brought to justice after his victim spotted him working at a medical centre and told a member of staff what had happened. Hull Crown Court heard how Hamilton, of Lisle Court, off Dagger Lane, city centre, would visit the mother’s house. After spending time with her, he would go upstairs to watch Coronation Street, and other soaps, with her daughter. Hamilton told his victim his behaviour was “normal” and that she would get into trouble if she told her mother. He also told the girl they would get a place together when she turned 16. When Hamilton’s relationship with the mother broke down, the abuse stopped. Richard Woolfall, prosecuting, told the court the victim had since struggled to cope and was still trying to rebuild her life following the assaults. He said: “She told her mother about it. She did not go into any detail, but recalls her mother telling her that it was over now and there was nothing that they could do. She showed no emotion.” It was not until last year the victim plucked up the courage to tell anyone else of the abuse, when she confided in her boyfriend. Then, three months later, she saw Hamilton working as a security guard at the Quays Medical Centre in Myton Street, city centre. Mr Woolfall said: “She mentioned it to someone there who notified the police.” The court heard how the victim has suffered depression and a lack of confidence since the abuse. Mr Woolfall said: “She was struggling to cope with everyday life. She is trying to rebuild her life.” Hamilton was arrested a year ago and initially told police he had at no stage been inappropriate to the girl. He later admitted everything. Hamilton was charged with eight offences, including indecency with a child, indecent assault and unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13. In mitigation, Anil Murray told the court his client had pleaded guilty to all charges and had shown significant remorse. He said: “Acceptance of guilt in these kinds of cases is rare. “Most, in this tough position, would rather fight it out and deny responsibility, rather than accept it. He is keen to complete any rehabilitative work that is necessary.” The court heard how Hamilton had committed a virtually identical crime in 1988. On that occasion, the victim’s mother found love letters written to her daughter and called police. He was given a three-year probation order. Sentencing, Judge Baker QC told Hamilton: “These offences involve the sexual degradation of a young child. “They were aggravated, not only because of her age, but you were in a position of trust.” After the case, Detective Constable Samantha McCulloch praised the latest victim for coming forward. She said: “The victim has lived with his actions for too long and has been extremely brave in coming to the police. “Following a thorough investigation, Kenneth Hamilton is now paying the price for committing historical sexual offences. “We will continue to pursue offenders who offend against children, and this sentence should serve as a warning to them.” Hamilton must sign the sex offenders’ register and has been banned from working with children. He was also made the subject of a lifetime sexual offences prevention order which prohibits him from having supervised or unsupervised contact with girls under 16.