Stephen Lott has accumulated 22 convictions for offences related to child sexual abuse. Notably, in 2016, he groped two girls aged five and eight at england/south-Kensingtonkensington/”>South Kensington station. Following his release from prison, Lott resumed his predatory behaviour in late 2023.
Grooming and Abuse of an Eight-Year-Old
Over nine months, Lott groomed an eight-year-old boy, showering him with presents and gifts. He later kissed the boy and invited him to his home with the intent to commit further sexual abuse. Lott claimed the kiss was accidental during a hug, but a jury found him guilty of sexual assault on a child and meeting a child following grooming.
Sentencing and Court Remarks
During the sentencing hearing on August 8 at Snaresbrook Crown Court, Lott attributed his behaviour to difficulties making friends in childhood. Supported by family members and a Churchchurch official, he pleaded with Judge Ross Cohen for a second chance, expressing his desire to create sci-fi videos on YouTube.
Judge Cohen responded, stating, “You delude yourself and others that your behaviour towards children is innocent… The sad truth, Stephen Lott, is that your behaviour towards children is both sexualised and predatory.” He noted Lott’s previous convictions, which included gross indecency with children aged five to seven, offences that would likely be charged as oral rape today.
Victim’s Mother’s Statement
A statement from the mother of Lott’s latest victim was read in court, expressing her distress: “Steve never made me aware he had previous convictions. It’s made me feel really anxious for my son, that he’s had to go through this. It’s been a really horrible time. It’s disheartening and sinister; I feel like a failure for not protecting him.”
Extended Sentence for Public Safety
Judge Cohen classified Lott as “dangerous,” enabling him to impose an extended sentence to protect children. Lott received a four-year prison term, with an additional three years on licence. A parole board may consider his release after two years and ten months, but he could remain imprisoned for the full term if deemed unsafe. Upon release, he will be on licence until 2032.
The Metropolitan Police did not release Lott’s latest custody image until September 10.
