SIMON HADDON FROM BASSSETT, SOUTHAMPTON SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF GIRLS

In a case that has shocked the local community of Southampton, Simon Haddon, a man residing in Bassett, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 20 years after being found guilty of multiple serious sexual offenses involving two young girls. The conviction came after a detailed trial where Haddon was charged with nine counts of indecent assault, acts of indecency with a child, and three separate counts of rape against one of the victims.

Judge Derwin Hope, presiding over the case, described the abuse as “dreadful and systematic,” emphasizing the severity and the high level of harm inflicted upon the victims. Addressing Haddon directly, the judge stated, “This was a dreadful and systematic sexual abuse of a very high order.” The judge also referenced a victim’s impact statement, which detailed not only the physical pain endured over the years but also the profound psychological scars left behind. The statement highlighted how Haddon’s actions robbed the young girl of her childhood innocence and caused lasting emotional trauma.

Throughout the proceedings, Haddon, aged 51, attempted to portray himself as a victim, a claim that the court dismissed as entirely unfounded. The judge made it clear that no such justification could be accepted given the evidence presented.

Haddon’s criminal record also includes five charges of indecent assault on the second girl involved in the case. His arrest was triggered when one of the victims confided in her mother about the abuse. The mother then contacted the girl’s boyfriend, who subsequently spoke with her mother, leading to the police being called and Haddon’s subsequent detention.

Following his arrest, Haddon maintained his innocence, denying all allegations. However, the court’s verdict resulted in not only the prison sentence but also a series of restrictions designed to prevent future harm. He was prohibited from working with children and, under a sexual offences prevention order, is barred from being alone with any girl indefinitely.

Detective Constable Wendy Rogers commented on the case, praising the bravery of the victims and witnesses who came forward. She stated, “I would like to commend the strength of the victims and witnesses in this case, who together have ensured that this individual has been made to answer for his crimes.” Rogers also expressed gratitude to the Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVA) from Southampton Rape Crisis for their vital support throughout the process.

Tracey Stovold, spokesperson for the ISVA team, added, “It takes an enormous amount of courage for victims to come forward and report these types of offences, and they often do so not just to seek justice but to protect others from suffering similar harm.” The case underscores the importance of community vigilance and the ongoing efforts to combat sexual abuse in the Southampton area.