Matt Ellett, a scout leader from Taunton, has been found guilty of 19 sexual offences against five children he met through his volunteer role. The 32-year-old was convicted by a unanimous jury at Taunton Crown Court, which sat at North Somerset Courthouse, on Wednesday, 5 August.
During the trial, the court heard how Ellett used his volunteer position within the scouting movement to befriend and ultimately abuse the children. Despite the outward appearance of being a trusted and positive influence, he exploited this trust for his own sexual gratification.
The specific offences Ellett was found guilty of were not detailed in the report, but the scale and severity were significant.
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Detective Sergeant Phil Hockey commented on the case, stating:
“Matt Ellett was a popular volunteer within the scouting movement. Many of the children’s parents believed he was a positive influence on the youngsters’ lives.
“The outward character Ellett portrayed though acted as a way for him to earn a position of trust, which he exploited for his own horrific sexual gratification.
“He has never admitted to what he did and this trial has been incredibly difficult for all those giving and listening to the evidence.
“The victims who came forward have shown incredible courage from start to finish. These verdicts do not undo or reduce the enormous pain Ellett caused them and their families, but we sincerely hope they provide some relief to all those affected by his crimes.”
Ellett was remanded in custody following the conviction and is due to be sentenced at Taunton Crown Court on 5 October.
DS Hockey also emphasised the importance of reporting sexual offences, encouraging victims to come forward regardless of how much time has passed since the offence took place.
“We know reporting non-recent sexual offences is a really big step for anyone.
“We hope that convictions for sexual offenders like Ellett give victims the confidence to come forward, because it doesn’t matter if the offence happened yesterday or 20 years ago, that person will be believed and the crime investigated.”
This case underscores the vital need for vigilance and support around safeguarding children in community organisations.