NICHOLAS HICKSON FROM SAMPFORD PEVERELL SENTENCED FOR GROOMING AND SEXUAL ABUSE IN EXETER

In December 2018, a disturbing case unfolded at Exeter Crown Court involving Nicholas Hickson, a businessman from Sampford Peverell, near Tiverton, who was convicted of heinous crimes against a vulnerable teenage girl. Hickson, aged 53 and a company director by profession, was found guilty of multiple counts of sexual activity with a minor, specifically a 15-year-old girl, whom he exploited through a calculated process of grooming and manipulation.

Hickson’s actions were particularly egregious given the girl’s troubled background, which included a history of physical abuse. The court heard that he deliberately took advantage of her vulnerable state, using her difficult circumstances to persuade her into engaging in sexual acts. The abuse began with inappropriate touching and escalated over time, culminating in Hickson having full sexual intercourse with the girl when she was just 15 years old. There was also evidence of intimidation and coercion, which further underscored the predatory nature of Hickson’s conduct.

The case was made even more poignant by a heartfelt personal statement written by the victim, which was read out during the trial. In her statement, she expressed feelings of helplessness, shame, and being trapped, revealing that she felt her childhood was robbed from her. She stated, “I didn’t think anyone would believe me. In my worst moments I felt helpless, ashamed and trapped. Looking back, I don’t think I had much of a childhood. There were times when I wanted to give up trying to make sense of it all.”

Hickson denied all allegations, leading to a trial where the girl was required to give evidence. Her testimony was emotionally taxing, bringing back painful memories of the abuse she endured. She described the experience of giving evidence as “horrific,” and admitted that her academic performance in school and college had suffered due to the stress and anxiety caused by Hickson’s actions.

Judge Peter Johnson sentenced Hickson to a total of seven years and eight months in prison. In his remarks, the judge emphasized Hickson’s awareness of the girl’s vulnerability and his deliberate exploitation of her. He stated, “You knew she was vulnerable and you abused her time after time. She was required to give evidence and as you know, she found that a traumatic experience. It is very much a factor I take into account when assessing the harm you caused.”

Prosecutor Miss Kelly Scrivener highlighted the aggravating factors of the case, noting Hickson’s knowledge of the girl’s background of physical abuse and his calculated grooming process. She pointed out that the abuse had progressed from initial touching to full sexual intercourse, with Hickson employing intimidation tactics to maintain control over the victim.

Hickson’s conviction and subsequent sentencing serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by predators who exploit vulnerable individuals. The case has also shed light on the importance of safeguarding and the need for vigilance in protecting at-risk youth from such predatory behavior.