Paedophile Peter Frank Hickman Jailed for Six Years After Decades of Abuse
Peter Frank Hickman, 85, of Coleford, Gloucestershire, was locked up for six years at Bristol Crown Court on Friday, 11 February. The vile predator pleaded guilty in July 2021 at Croydon Crown Court to multiple historic sex offences against a boy under 16.
Decades of Disturbing Abuse Revealed
- Indecent assault on a boy under 16 in the victim’s bedroom, between 1965 and 1972
- Indecent assault on the same boy on at least 30 separate occasions during those years
- Gross indecency against a boy under 14 on at least 30 occasions from 1965 to 1970
Hickman will be on the sex offenders register for life. The attacks took place while the victim was living in children’s homes in Beckenham and Dulwich during the 1960s and 70s.
Police Operate Under Operation Winterkey
The case emerged in 2018 after officers from the Metropolitan Police’s Operation Winterkey received a third-party allegation of historic abuse. Operation Winterkey investigates non-recent child sexual abuse, especially involving public figures or institutions.
Detective Constable Simon Rubery, who led the investigation, said:
“Hickman took advantage of a child in his care while in a position of trust and committed atrocious crimes against him on many occasions.” “Tragically, the victim died last year and will never know his abuser was brought to justice. I commend his bravery for helping make this possible.” “I hope this sentence encourages others to come forward and report any abuse they’ve suffered, past or present.” “Given Hickman’s predatory behaviour, there may be more victims. We urge anyone affected to contact the police. A specially trained team is ready to listen and support you.”
This grim case highlights the ongoing fight to shine a light on historic abuse and bring offenders to justice — no matter how long ago the crimes were committed.
