MICHAEL HAWKINS FROM POOLE JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN DORSET

In a case that has shocked the local community of Poole, Michael Hawkins, a well-known charity worker and community volunteer, has been sentenced to five years in prison after admitting to the sexual abuse of a 13-year-old girl. The incident, which took place over several months, was brought to light after police investigations were initiated following reports from vigilant teachers at the girl’s school.

Michael Hawkins, aged 67 and residing on Farwell Road in Poole, appeared in Bournemouth Crown Court where he was visibly emotional as the judge outlined the charges against him. The court heard that Hawkins had engaged in inappropriate and criminal conduct towards the young girl on multiple occasions between December 2013 and July of the current year. The abuse included groping and sexual assault, with the defendant also admitting to taking an indecent photograph of the girl’s breasts, which he stored on his computer’s hard drive.

Prosecutor Simon Jones detailed the disturbing nature of the case, emphasizing the significant age difference between Hawkins and his victim—she was just 13, while he was 67. The court was told that Hawkins had told the girl that their secret should be kept, a statement that added to the trauma experienced by the young victim. In her victim impact statement, the girl expressed feelings of being “dirty and ashamed,” highlighting the profound emotional toll the abuse had inflicted.

The incidents reportedly occurred in a woodland area at a scenic Dorset location overlooking the sea, as well as during a drive in which Hawkins bought sweets for the girl. These details underscored the calculated nature of his actions and the breach of trust involved.

Hawkins pleaded guilty to two counts of assault by penetration, two counts of sexual assault, and the possession of an indecent photograph. The police were alerted to the situation by observant teachers who noticed suspicious behavior and reported it to authorities. The case drew attention not only because of the severity of the crimes but also due to Hawkins’ reputation within the community.

During mitigation, Anne Brown highlighted Hawkins’ longstanding contributions to the community, noting his involvement at the Alderney West Community Centre, where he had volunteered for many years. She pointed out his efforts in fundraising, hosting events, and even helping with the Scouts when his son was young. Brown emphasized that Hawkins had led an “extremely productive life” spanning over six decades.

However, Judge Samuel Wiggs addressed the court, referencing a pre-sentence report from the Probation Service that revealed Hawkins’ distorted perception of the situation. The judge explained that Hawkins believed the girl was interested in him and that he misunderstood the concept of consent, even suggesting that he thought the legal age of consent was incorrect. The judge described Hawkins’ thinking as “distorted,” which contributed to his criminal behavior.

In addition to the prison sentence, Hawkins will be required to register as a sex offender and will be subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order for five years after his release. The judge’s decision reflects the seriousness of the crimes committed and the need to protect the community from potential future harm. Hawkins, a former pupil of Poole Grammar School and a veteran of 16 years in the Royal Artillery, now faces the consequences of his actions, which have profoundly impacted his victim and the community he once served.