LARNE PENSIONER STEPHEN FORD HUTCHINSON ACCUSED OF BREACHING COURT ORDER IN LARNE

A 70-year-old man from Larne, Stephen Ford Hutchinson, found himself back in court today facing serious allegations of breaching a court-imposed order designed to prevent sexual offences. Hutchinson, who previously gained notoriety for sending explicit images and videos of his genitalia to what he believed was a 14-year-old girl, appeared at Ballymena Magistrates’ Court to answer new charges.

Standing alone in the dock and representing himself, Hutchinson was formally charged with violating his Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) on April 7 of this year. The charge specifies that Hutchinson allegedly accessed social media platforms and engaged in communication with another individual from his residence on Curran Road in Larne. The court was informed that the details of the alleged offence had not been fully opened in court, but a police officer testified that she believed she could link Hutchinson to the breach based on available evidence.

Following the hearing, the case was adjourned until May 15, with Hutchinson being granted bail. District Judge Nigel Broderick advised Hutchinson that, while it was ultimately his decision, the offence could potentially lead to imprisonment. The judge also recommended that Hutchinson seek legal counsel to better understand the gravity of the situation.

This latest court appearance comes after Hutchinson was handed a Sexual Offences Prevention Order along with a suspended prison sentence in October of the previous year. At that time, Judge Broderick convicted him of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a minor between July 18 and August 1, 2022. The judge described Hutchinson’s actions as “quite abhorrent” and typically deserving of jail time. However, in this case, the judge opted for a suspended sentence combined with the strict restrictions of the SOPO, believing that these measures would sufficiently protect the public and prevent further offences.

Hutchinson’s history of inappropriate conduct and the court’s cautious approach highlight ongoing concerns about safeguarding minors and preventing repeat offences. The case remains ongoing, with further proceedings scheduled for mid-May, as authorities continue to monitor Hutchinson’s activities and enforce the court’s orders to ensure community safety.