Predatory Scout Leader Jailed for 15 Years Over Historic Child Sex Crimes
Michael Costin, 59, a drifter with no fixed address, has been locked up for 15 years and three months at Snaresbrook Crown Court. The sentence follows a string of horrific historic sexual offences against children dating back to the 1980s and 1990s.
Met Police Crack Case Across Multiple Regions
The Metropolitan Police’s specialist squad led the tireless investigation. Detective Constable James Howlett praised his team for their hard work, tracking Costin’s crimes across Essex, Suffolk, and Northern Ireland. The probe involved sifting through huge amounts of evidence and supporting victims nationwide.
Dark Past as Scout Leader Exploited
Costin abused his role as a scout leader to prey on vulnerable children. His sick offences include assaults at camps and sending disturbing “love letters” to victims. From 1982 to 1986, he abused four victims in Rush Green, East London. He then victimised ten more between 1989 and 1994 in Suffolk.
“Coming forward was tough, but trusting the justice system gave me strength,”
one victim told the court during sentencing.
Justice Served, But Warning Issued
This latest conviction adds to Costin’s criminal record, including previous convictions in 1996 and jail time for offences in Oxford between 2007 and 2010. The Met vows to protect children and urges anyone affected by abuse to come forward. Specially trained officers remain on hand to support victims through the legal process.
The message is clear: predators like Costin will face the full force of the law.
