
Convicted ex-Scout Master jailed again for historic child sexual abuse
An ex-Scout Master has been jailed for historic sexual abuse against two young boys in the Eighties.
Steven Chadwick left one of his victims so disturbed he still wakes up to images of being abused every day, nearly 40 years later.
Chadwick used his position in the Scouts and the local church where he worked as a caretaker and ran the youth club to befriend one victim’s family and gain their trust before grooming the boy which led to the abuse, Leeds Crown Court heard.
A powerful statement written by one survivor was read out in court, directly addressing Chadwick and detailing the severe impact the abuse had had on his life.
It caused him to develop anxiety and depression, with alcohol and self-destructive addictions taking over his life.
Chadwick had already served two prison sentences for abusing boys. In 2013 he was found to be in possession of indecent images of children and received a community service order.
Chadwick arrived alone for the sentencing.
Mitigating, Chadwick’s solicitor told the judge these were horrific offences that have undoubtedly ruined lives, but pointed out Chadwick’s age, his poor health, and the fact he had pleaded guilty to the offences.
The judge said: “This is not a straightforward sentencing exercise…Albeit you had no convictions at the date of these offences [the late 1980s] I can’t ignore that you have since committed a number of other sexual offences against children.
“This was highly grooming behaviour. I must take into account the significant impact on these two separate victims.”
Chadwick was given two consecutive sentences of 18 months each. The judge said he would likely serve half the sentence.
Whilst no amount of prison time can take away the effects of abuse, hopefully justice being served can bring some closure to those involved.
A civil claim can also help individuals to recover from experiences of abuse, paying for important treatment and helping to rebuild their lives.
If you have experienced abuse, you may have a claim for compensation. Please do not hesitate to contact our dedicated team for a free, confidential and no obligation discussion about your legal options.