SIMON HILDRED FROM RUSKINGTON AND SLEAFORD JAILED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES INVOLVING RAF CRANWELL AND LOCAL GROUPS

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Ruskington and Sleaford, Simon Hildred, aged 32, has been sentenced to nine years in prison at Lincoln Crown Court for a series of heinous crimes involving the abuse of young children. The court heard that Hildred, who at the time was associated with various local organizations, including St George’s Academy in Sleaford, had committed multiple offenses that spanned several years and involved both contact and online abuse.

Hildred pleaded guilty to five counts of indecent assault on a child under 14, four counts of sexual assault on a child under 13, and additional charges including inciting gross indecency with a child and inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity. The court also learned that he possessed a staggering 27,890 indecent images of children and was responsible for creating ten indecent images. These charges paint a disturbing picture of a man who exploited his positions of trust and authority to commit these grave offenses.

According to Det Sgt Claire Hammond of Lincolnshire Police’s Public Protection Unit, Hildred had connections to several prominent local groups, including RAF Cranwell Kidzone, the Boys Brigade in Sleaford, the Army Cadets in Sleaford, and St John Ambulance. She emphasized that Hildred’s involvement with these organizations meant he came into contact with a significant number of children on a regular basis. She stated, “The victims have dealt with this horrific act throughout their childhood into adulthood. The effect on their lives has been overwhelming, and they have had to deal with the transition to adulthood whilst carrying the effects of the offences this man has committed against them.”

Hildred’s criminal activities extended into his professional life, as he was working at St George’s Academy in Sleaford at the time of his arrest. The police and prosecutors expressed their gratitude to the victims for their bravery in reliving their traumatic experiences, which was crucial in building a strong case against him. Det Sgt Hammond added, “The length of a case like this poses its own issues for the victims, and they have been dignified and supportive of the prosecution throughout. Without their voices, we would not have been able to bring about this conviction.”

The authorities hope that the lengthy sentence will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider abusing their positions or exploiting children online. Hammond also urged parents and children who have concerns related to this case to contact the police immediately. She highlighted that Hildred’s social and working life had put him in contact with numerous children, making the case particularly alarming. The police have called on anyone with information or concerns to reach out via their contact channels, including email and phone, to ensure the safety of children in the community.

Hildred’s previous admission of guilt in May 2013, when he pleaded guilty to similar charges, underscores the severity and persistence of his offending behavior. His association with scout groups such as Cubs and Badgers, as well as his involvement with St John Ambulance and the Army Cadet Force, further illustrate the breach of trust and the danger posed by his actions. The court’s decision to impose a substantial prison sentence aims to reflect the gravity of his crimes and to protect the community from further harm.