Havant Man Jailed for 18 Years Over Decades of Abuse

Havant Man Jailed for 18 Years for Decades of Sexual Offences

David Anthony Cotton, 60, of Middle Park Way, Leigh Park, Havant, was sentenced to 18 years in prison after being found guilty of 28 sexual offences spanning over 40 years. Cotton targeted ten victims, including children, between the late 1970s and 2021 in Havant, Denmead, Southsea, Hambledon, and Chichester.

Following a three-year investigation by Hampshire Police’s Operation Amberstone team, Cotton faced charges including indecent assault, inciting sexual activity, and sexual assault on children. Despite pleading not guilty, he was convicted after a five-week trial at Portsmouth Crown Court.

Cotton was deemed a dangerous offender and received a five-year license extension. He is now on the sex offenders register for life and is subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Detective Constable Hollie Shelton praised the victims’ bravery in coming forward, adding that the sentence ensures Cotton can no longer harm others.

Support for abuse survivors can be found by contacting the NSPCC help@nspcc.org.uk/.  If you have been affected by this matter you can contact Hampshire Constabulary : www.hampshire.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/advice/rape-sexual-assault-and-other-sexual-offences/rape-sexual-assault-support/ 

Alternatively you can speak to our specialist team for confidential, no obligation advice as to your legal rights. Email David today dhawkins@biscoes-law.co.uk or call 023 9266 0261.