SCOTT HUNT SENTENCED IN BRISTOL FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRLS
A Bristol Crown Court judge told Scott Hunt, a 33-year-old man from Whitefield Avenue in Speedwell, that his guilt was entirely his own.Hunt was convicted of abusing two young girls on multiple occasions; he denies wrongdoing, but a jury found him guilty of three charges—causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity with one girl, and two counts of sexual assault against another girl.
The court sentenced Hunt to eight years in prison.
Both of the victims delivered impact statements, speaking of the guilt and shame they had experienced due to his abuse.
The judge addressed Hunt directly, saying: "They should feel no guilt.
They did nothing wrong.
The guilt is all yours.
There is absolutely no guilt on them.
Their strength is in coming here and telling this court what you did to them.
They are not little girls anymore; they are strong young women.
The guilt is yours." Following his conviction, Hunt was issued an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, prohibiting him from contact with or employment involving minors under 16.
He was also ordered to register his whereabouts with police for life.
One of the victims detailed the impact of the abuse, stating: "I was just a little girl.
I didn't understand a lot of things that happened." She explained that Hunt manipulated her and warned her not to tell anyone, which led her to blank much of her childhood and feel nervous around men.
The other victim shared her feelings of "guilt, shame, and disgust," adding that the abuse left her very angry and distrustful.
Defence lawyer Catherine Spedding explained that Hunt had been disfigured at 11 months old following severe burns.
She highlighted that Hunt faced bullying in his early years, which contributed to his loneliness and isolation, and noted a Probation Service report suggesting a link between his childhood injury and his offending.
The court was also told Hunt had been the primary caregiver for his mother, who suffers from vascular dementia.
Miss Spedding stated, "He still does not accept the offences, but he does acknowledge the impact on the victims." Investigating officer Detective Constable Michael Coleman commented: "These were horrific crimes against two vulnerable young girls in the Bristol area years ago.
The offences were first reported in 2017, leading to a detailed investigation.
Hunt was charged in January 2021 and found guilty after a recent trial." He added: "Both victims have shown remarkable bravery, resilience, and fortitude throughout the investigation and court proceedings.
I hope the sentence helps the victims find closure and encourages other victims to come forward, knowing they will be believed and heard."
