LEE HODGETTS WIGAN PERVERT SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE AND INDECENT IMAGES
In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Wigan, Lee Hodgetts, a 44-year-old man from Beverley Road, Marsh Green, has been sentenced to over three years in prison for heinous acts of child sexual abuse and possession of indecent images.The case came to light after a parent of one of Hodgetts' victims discovered incriminating text messages and explicit images on their young daughter’s mobile phone, prompting an investigation that ultimately led to his arrest.
Hodgetts had previously pleaded guilty in December 2018 to multiple charges related to child sex offenses and the possession of indecent images.
However, the sentencing was postponed for more than 14 months due to his prolonged health issues, which temporarily delayed justice.
Once he recovered sufficiently to face court proceedings, he appeared at Bolton Crown Court to answer for his crimes.
During the hearing, it was revealed that Hodgetts had targeted two female victims, one aged 16 and the other just 13, with the abuse beginning in 2012.
The court heard that the initial abuse and exploitation had taken place over several years, causing significant concern and distress within the community.
Following the parent’s intervention, authorities swiftly moved to arrest Hodgetts.
A search of his electronic devices, including his iPhone and computer, uncovered a disturbing collection of indecent images.
The images were classified into different categories based on their severity: four images fell into the most serious Category A, one was Category B, and a total of 82 images were classified as Category C.
Hodgetts faced multiple charges, ultimately pleading guilty to eight counts.
These included three charges of possessing indecent images of a child, two counts of distributing such images, two counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and one charge of causing a child to watch a sexual act.
His actions demonstrated a pattern of predatory behavior and exploitation.
In sentencing, the judge imposed a term of 40 months in prison.
Additionally, Hodgetts was ordered to register as a sex offender indefinitely, reflecting the serious nature of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.
The case underscores the importance of vigilance and swift action in protecting vulnerable children from predators like Lee Hodgetts in Wigan and beyond.
