PETER WATTS SENTENCED IN HARTLEPOOL SEX ABUSE CASE INVOLVING BOYS IN THE 1970S AND 1980S

A disturbing chapter in Hartlepool's history has come to light as Peter Watts, a man aged 72, has been convicted of multiple serious sexual offences committed against young boys during the late 1970s and 1980s. The crimes, which took place in and around public toilets in Hartlepool, have left a lasting scar on the victims and have now resulted in a significant legal response.

Watts was sentenced to seven years and six months in prison after being found guilty of five counts of indecent assault. His crimes, which targeted boys aged between 12 and 16, were part of a broader pattern of abuse that has only recently been brought to justice. The court heard that Watts's actions were part of a series of offences that spanned several years, reflecting a disturbing disregard for the safety and well-being of vulnerable minors.

In the same court proceedings, other men from the Hartlepool area received lengthy custodial sentences for their involvement in similar offences. Robert Black, 71, formerly of Derwent Grange and now without a fixed address, was handed a 16-year sentence for four counts of indecent assault and one serious sexual offence. Geoff Hillier, 72, of Haswell Avenue, received 14 years for two indecent assaults, two serious sexual offences, and admitted to possessing six counts of indecent images. David Anderson, 71, of Grange Road, was sentenced to over nine years after pleading guilty to six counts of indecent assault. Alan Edmonson, 66, of Ibrox Grove, received a two-year suspended sentence for a single count of indecent assault, which will be served if he commits further offences within two years.

All victims recounted the profound and long-lasting psychological trauma inflicted upon them. One survivor, speaking in court, described enduring effects such as substance misuse, failed relationships, and a deep mistrust of adults, highlighting the devastating impact of these crimes. Judge Howard Crowson emphasized that, regardless of whether the victims appeared to consent at the time, minors are legally incapable of giving valid consent. As a result, the judge imposed lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention Orders on all five convicted men, restricting their contact with children and their internet activity to prevent further harm.

The sentences have been met with relief and some approval from the victims, who acknowledged that many of the offenders will serve only part of their sentences. They also urged other survivors to come forward and seek justice. Detective Inspector Matt Hollingsworth praised the bravery of those who testified and participated in the two-and-a-half-year investigation, known as Operation Krafft. He expressed hope that the convictions will aid in the healing process for the victims and their families, and serve as a reminder that justice can be achieved even after decades of silence.