Grooming Leeds paedophile showered vulnerable girl with gifts before ‘taking advantage’

Shaun Hamilton was found guilty after a trial at Leeds Crown Court of two counts of sexual activity with a child. He was cleared of four other charges.

The 34-year-old, who has no previous convictions, came into contact with the youngster in 2018 and “flattered her”, telling her she was pretty and gorgeous and bought her presents. He then became sexually involved with the girl before her 14th birthday.

When concerns were initially raised by social services, education and health services, the victim had felt unable to engage with police or partner agencies, but she later came forward to provide an account after she ceased contact with Hamilton.

Officers from Leeds District Safeguarding Unit launched a child sexual exploitation investigation and carried out extensive enquiries to build up a clear evidential picture of his offending against the girl that resulted in him being charged and convicted.

Appearing in court from HMP Leeds, where he has been held on remand since he was found guilty in October, Judge Robin Mairs told Hamilton: “You effectively groomed her. It had a significant impact on her and she continues to be troubled by it. Although, she was a troubled girl before you took advantage of her, so I can’t solely lay it all at your door.”

Hamilton, of Whincover Gardens, Farnley, was given five years’ jail, a five-year sexual harm prevention order (SHPO) and has been ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life.

Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Inspector Al Cheyne, of Leeds District Safeguarding Unit, said: “Hamilton sexually exploited this vulnerable young girl when he was an adult of more than twice her age and would have been very much aware of the offences he was committing against her.

“We hope it will provide some reassurance to the victim and her family to know that he has now been held accountable for his actions and sent to prison.

“We urge anyone who has been a victim of child sexual exploitation, or who has concerns about someone else, to come forward.”