MICHAEL LITTLEFIELD SENTENCED TO 14 YEARS IN PRISON FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN EASTLEIGH AND HEDGE END

A man from Hampshire has received a lengthy prison sentence of 14 years after being convicted of numerous child sex offences committed in the towns of Eastleigh and Hedge End. Michael Littlefield, aged 39 and residing on Camborne Close in Bishopstoke, was found guilty following a comprehensive five-day trial held at Southampton Crown Court in April.

The court's verdict included convictions on eight counts of sexual assault against a child under the age of 13, two counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a minor, one count of assaulting a child under 13 by penetration, and one count of inciting or causing a child under 13 to participate in sexual acts. The jury, however, acquitted Littlefield of one count each of rape of a child under 13 and inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity.

Evidence presented during the trial revealed that Littlefield subjected three young children to repeated sexual abuse over a period of six years, from 2014 to 2020, within the Eastleigh and Hedge End communities. The abuse involved multiple incidents, highlighting a prolonged pattern of exploitation.

To ensure public safety and prevent further harm, Judge (name if known) sentenced Littlefield to a total of 14 years of imprisonment. In addition, he will be subject to a four-year period of licence following his release from prison. As part of his offending management, Littlefield was also issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, restricting his future contact and activities concerning minors.

Kimberly Duncan, representing Hampshire Constabulary’s Child Abuse Investigation Team, publicly acknowledged the bravery of the victims who came forward to report the abuse. She emphasized that the victims, despite their young age, demonstrated remarkable maturity in articulating what had happened to them. Duncan paid tribute to their courage and resilience, stating, “Each child showed maturity beyond their years in articulating the crimes committed against them. The victims will now have to live with this ordeal for the rest of their lives, but a very dangerous man is now behind bars. We hope the sentencing can provide the victims with a sense of closure and comfort that he can no longer harm them."

Hampshire Constabulary reaffirmed their commitment to supporting victims of sexual assault and child abuse. Duncan concluded by asserting that the police force would continue their efforts to identify offenders and ensure they are brought to justice, reinforcing the message that such crimes will not be tolerated and offenders will face the full weight of the law.