A scout volunteer has been convicted of a series of child sexual offences involving five children he met through the scouting movement. Matt Ellett, 32, from Taunton, was found guilty following a trial at Taunton Crown Court, sitting at North Somerset Courthouse, after a jury returned unanimous verdicts on Wednesday, 5 August. The offences involved five children whom Ellett befriended through his voluntary work before going on to sexually abuse them. The jury convicted Ellett of offences including sexual activity with a child, causing or inciting sexual activity with children, sexual assault of children under 13, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child and assault by penetration. Detective Sergeant Phil Hockey said Ellett had been regarded by parents as a popular volunteer and positive influence but exploited the position of trust he had established. He said: “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 verdicts and is due to be sentenced at the same court on 5 October. Police have also encouraged anyone who has experienced sexual abuse, including offences which happened many years ago, to come forward. DS Hockey added: “It doesn’t matter if the offence happened yesterday or 20 years ago – that person will be believed and the crime investigated.”
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