Man, 70, jailed for non-recent child sex offences in Southampton

A Southampton man who sexually assaulted a child in the 1980s has today been jailed for seven years and ten months.

Benjamin John Hassell, 70, of Clarendon Road, was found guilty of indecent assault during a trial at Southampton Crown Court in May this year.

He had previously pleaded guilty to seven charges of making indecent images of a child.

The sentence follows an investigation by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Criminal Investigation Department.

The trial heard how in 1987, when the victim was just six years old, Hassell sexually assaulted her at an address in Southampton.

The victim came forward to speak to police to report what had happened to her in 2020, and an investigation was launched. Officers seized a number of electronic devices from Hassell, including a laptop, a digital storage device and an SD card. An examination of these devices revealed more than 2000 indecent images of children.

Hassell had previously pleaded not guilty to the indecent assault charge, however was found guilty of the offence by a jury.

Detective Constable Mark Gallagher, who led the investigation, said: “I would like to thank the woman involved in this case for the bravery and tenacity she has shown, not only in coming forward to speak to us, but also throughout the investigation and criminal justice process. Her courage has meant that Hassell faced justice.

“We would encourage anyone who has been a victim of child sexual abuse, no matter how long ago it happened, to contact us on 101. You will be able to speak to our specialist detectives in confidence.

“We recognise that not everyone has the confidence to speak to police, but there are support services available that can help you if you are a victim of abuse.”

Anyone who has experienced abuse in childhood or is concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC helpline confidentially on 0808 800 5000 or email [email protected]. Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111.