SHOCKING CRIME IN BURBAGE AND HINCKLEY: ACTOR MATTHEW WILSON JAILED FOR CHILD RAPE AND SEX ABUSE

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Burbage and Hinckley, Matthew Wilson, a well-known actor and performer from Elm Tree Drive in Burbage, has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being found guilty of a series of heinous crimes involving the sexual abuse of minors. The court heard that Wilson, aged 34, was involved in a disturbing pattern of criminal behavior spanning over a decade, which included the rape of a 14-year-old girl, multiple counts of sexual activity with minors, and the possession of thousands of indecent images of young girls.

Wilson’s involvement in the local theatre scene, particularly at the Concordia Theatre in Hinckley, was once seen as a testament to his talent as a pianist, dancer, and actor. However, his reputation was shattered as evidence emerged of his manipulative tactics used to groom and abuse vulnerable young girls. Prosecutor Rebecca Herbert described how Wilson exploited his position within the theatre community to meet, groom, and sexually abuse young girls under the guise of mentorship and friendship. She explained that Wilson employed “skilful manipulation,” making his victims believe they were in romantic relationships with him, which effectively silenced them from speaking out.

The court was told that Wilson’s criminal activities included a series of sexual offenses committed over a ten-year period. Specifically, he admitted to raping a 14-year-old girl and engaging in three counts of sexual activity with her between January and March 2006. Additionally, he pleaded guilty to five counts of indecent assault against a 15-year-old girl, which took place between October and December 2002. Further, Wilson admitted to three counts of sexual activity with another 14-year-old girl, including an incident of inciting her to engage in sexual acts, including intercourse, last year.

Beyond these offenses, Wilson also confessed to possessing and downloading a staggering number of illegal images. Between January 2012 and June of the previous year, he accessed and stored a total of 2,221 indecent photographs of children. These images were categorized across various levels of severity, with no images in the most serious category, level five. The images included five at level two, four at level three, and 24 at level four, indicating a disturbing collection of child exploitation material.

In sentencing, Judge Mark Rogers emphasized the gravity of Wilson’s actions, stating, “Your behaviour has shattered the lives of a number of families. The only person to blame for that is you.” The judge highlighted the breach of trust involved in these crimes and described the victim impact statements as “truly shocking and distressing.” Wilson was ordered to serve a minimum of two-thirds of his nine-year sentence and was given a longer-than-normal license period of five years. He will also be placed on the sex offender register for life, banned from working with children, and subject to a sex offences prevention order.

During the proceedings, Philip Gibbs, representing Wilson, provided a mitigating statement. He referenced a heartfelt letter from Wilson’s mother, describing her son as a “damaged, weak, needy, socially isolated adult” who, regrettably, took sexual pleasure in acts he should have avoided. Gibbs acknowledged Wilson’s acceptance of his wrongdoing, emphasizing that he should have been a role model but fell short.

Following the sentencing, Detective Constable Glen Williams of the Leicestershire Serious Crime Team expressed gratitude to the victims for their bravery and cooperation. He acknowledged the emotional toll on the victims and their families, some of whom became visibly distressed and wept in the courtroom gallery. This case has brought to light the dark side of a once-respected figure in the local arts community, leaving a lasting impact on all involved.