SHAUN HAMILTON FROM FARNLEY SENTENCED FOR GROOMING LEEDS SCHOOLGIRL IN SHOCKING CASE

In December 2022, a disturbing case involving a paedophile from Farnley has culminated in a significant prison sentence after he was convicted of grooming and sexually abusing a vulnerable schoolgirl in Leeds. Shaun Hamilton, aged 34, was found guilty at Leeds Crown Court of two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child, following a detailed trial that uncovered the extent of his offending.

Hamilton’s inappropriate contact with the young girl began in 2018, when he started to flatter her, making her feel valued and attractive by telling her she was pretty and gorgeous. During this period, he also showered her with gifts, which appeared to be part of his grooming strategy to establish trust and manipulate her. His actions escalated to sexual abuse before the girl’s 14th birthday, a revelation that has left a lasting impact on her life.

Concerns about the girl’s welfare were initially raised by social services, along with education and health professionals. However, at that time, the victim felt unable to engage with police or partner agencies, possibly due to fear or confusion. It was only after she ceased contact with Hamilton that she decided to come forward and share her account of the abuse, providing crucial evidence for the investigation.

Following her disclosure, officers from the Leeds District Safeguarding Unit launched a comprehensive child sexual exploitation investigation. They conducted extensive inquiries to gather evidence and build a clear picture of Hamilton’s offending. Their diligent efforts culminated in his arrest, prosecution, and eventual conviction.

During the court proceedings, Hamilton appeared via video link from HMP Leeds, where he has been held on remand since his conviction in October. Judge Robin Mairs sentenced him to five years in prison, emphasizing the severity of his actions. The judge stated, “You effectively groomed her. It had a significant impact on her and she continues to be troubled by it. Although, she was a troubled girl before you took advantage of her, so I can’t solely lay it all at your door.”

In addition to his prison term, Hamilton was handed a five-year sexual harm prevention order (SHPO), which aims to restrict his contact with minors and prevent further offending. He was also ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities. Hamilton’s case highlights the importance of vigilance and the relentless efforts of law enforcement and social services to protect vulnerable children from predators in the Leeds area, particularly in the Farnley community where he resides.