Stephen Hudd, 60, from Trowbridge, has been sentenced to 13 years and nine months in prison after admitting to nine counts of sexual abuse against a girl under the age of 13.
Hudd appeared at Salisbury Crown Court two weeks ago, where the charges were formally presented. He will serve at least 12 years and nine months before becoming eligible for release on licence, followed by a year under supervision.
In addition to his incarceration, Hudd will be placed on the Sex Offenders Register, barring him from working unsupervised with children or young people in the future.
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During sentencing, the victim’s mother read a heartfelt personal statement describing the profound trauma inflicted on her daughter and the entire family. She said, “Although my daughter is the victim, the trauma of these events has shattered our whole family. The ripple effects continue to disrupt every aspect of our lives—it is truly heartbreaking. He has destroyed her perception of men and the world around her and stolen the innocence of her childhood.”
Detective Constable Danielle Swanborough expressed admiration for the courage of the survivor and gratitude for the family’s support during the investigation. She remarked, “Hudd’s selfish and predatory behaviour has had a devastating impact. He will now serve a significant prison sentence for his crimes.”