HASTINGS EX-COUNCILLOR MATTHEW LOCK PLEADS GUILTY TO CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN BATTLE

In a significant development in a series of disturbing criminal cases, Matthew Lock, a 38-year-old former councillor representing the St Helen’s ward in Hastings and a former Scout leader in Battle, has admitted to a total of 19 serious charges related to child sexual offences. The admissions were made during a court hearing held at Lewes Crown Court, marking a pivotal moment in a case that has garnered considerable attention from local communities and law enforcement authorities alike.

According to a spokesperson from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), Lock pleaded guilty to multiple counts that encompass a range of disturbing offences. These include three counts of making indecent photographs of a child, one count of distributing such photographs, and two additional charges related to the distribution or showing of indecent images involving children. Furthermore, Lock admitted to two counts of attempting to intentionally incite a child to engage in sexual activity, as well as ten counts of attempting to incite a child to engage in sexual acts. The most serious of these charges involve an attempt to incite a child under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity.

These offences span a period from 2006 to 2013, with the indecent images offences occurring over a seven-year timeframe. The attempted incitement offences, however, took place between 2010 and 2013 and involved online interactions with two separate boys. It is important to note that these victims are not from Sussex and are not known to each other, and there are no local safeguarding issues linked to these incidents.

Lock’s legal troubles began to unfold when he was arrested on November 24, 2014. Following his arrest, he was placed on police bail for six months. During this period, Lock was suspended by the Scout Association, which responded swiftly upon becoming aware of the arrest. The organization suspended him as a Scout leader in Battle, reflecting the seriousness of the allegations and the need to protect children from potential harm.

He was remanded in custody last month after appearing before the court at an earlier hearing. Although he was scheduled to face trial at Lewes Crown Court later this month, the CPS announced on Monday, September 19, that Lock had entered a guilty plea to all 19 charges during a hearing held on September 8. This plea marks a significant step in the legal process and brings some closure to the investigation.

Matthew Lock resigned from his position as a councillor on May 19, 2015, citing personal problems and health issues as reasons for his departure. Despite stepping down, his criminal case continued to develop, and he remains a figure of concern within the community. The court has scheduled his sentencing for November 25, and authorities have indicated that a comprehensive sentencing hearing will follow to determine appropriate penalties for his actions.