PAUL BEDARD, PORTSWOOD PAEDOPHILE, JAILED FOR ABUSE IN SOUTHAMPTON PUBS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the Southampton community, Paul Bedard, a 63-year-old former publican from Portswood, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed over a span of eight years. The crimes, which involved grooming and assaulting four young boys, took place between 1990 and 1998 while Bedard was operating two popular pubs in Southampton: The Hobbit and the Clowns and Jesters.

During the trial at Southampton Crown Court, it was revealed that Bedard used manipulative tactics to gain the trust of his victims. He would often offer alcohol, money, clothes, and cigarettes to the boys, many of whom were in their early teens, to establish a sense of familiarity and dependence. Once trust was secured, he exploited this relationship for his own sexual gratification, committing multiple acts of indecent assault, buggery, attempted buggery, and false imprisonment.

The court heard that Bedard’s grooming process involved befriending the boys through his pub patrons and offering them work or odd jobs such as cleaning and collecting glasses. These interactions often occurred after hours, either on the premises or at his home, located in Lodge Road, Portswood. The victims ranged in age from 11 to 18, with most assaults happening when they were in their early teens.

Throughout the proceedings, Bedard appeared via video link from Winchester Prison, showing no visible emotion during the sentencing. His defense argued that he was suffering from deteriorating health, including a stroke that left him in a wheelchair. Nick Rowland, representing Bedard, requested the court to consider his client’s health and advanced age, describing the situation as a humanitarian concern. However, the prosecution emphasized the severity of the crimes and the lasting impact on the victims.

Judge Derwin Hope delivered the sentence, condemning Bedard for the moral corruption inflicted upon the boys. The judge highlighted that the psychological scars from the abuse would likely have a profound and lasting effect on the victims. He also pointed out that Bedard’s continued denial of the offenses and lack of empathy demonstrated a troubling disregard for the harm caused. The judge remarked that forcing the victims to relive their trauma through the trial process had reopened painful memories and deep-seated feelings.

Detectives involved in the case praised the bravery of the victims who came forward, often many years after the abuse occurred. Detective Constable Viv Wilson expressed admiration for their courage, noting that their testimonies had been instrumental in securing justice. She emphasized that this case underscores the importance of victims feeling empowered to speak out, regardless of how much time has passed. Wilson also stated that the police would continue their efforts to identify and assist other potential victims who may have suffered at the hands of Paul Bedard, aiming to bring further justice and closure.

As Bedard begins his lengthy incarceration, the community reflects on the devastating impact of his actions and the resilience of those who have finally found justice after years of silence.