Martial Arts Instructor Jailed for 13½ Years for Shocking Child Sex Crimes
Steven Oxborrow’s sick abuse exposed after years hiding behind trusted local role
Steven Oxborrow, 33, from Wootton, has been slammed with a 13½-year prison sentence for a horrific spree of child sex offences stretching from 2005 to 2012. The former children’s martial arts instructor and entertainer was convicted at southampton/" title="Southampton" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Southampton Crown Court on multiple counts, including rape and sexual activity with children under 13.
Abuse uncovered after victim bravely spoke out
The nightmare was revealed when one victim, aged just 12 at the time, came forward after a concerned parent discovered inappropriate messages on a family computer. The investigation widened to uncover two more victims and indecent images on Oxborrow’s devices.
- Five counts of sexual activity with a child under 13
- Three counts of sexual assault of a child under 13
- Two counts of making indecent photographs of a child
- One count of possession of indecent images
- One count of rape of a child under 13
Harsh penalties and lifelong bans
Sentenced on 26 May at Southampton Crown Court, Oxborrow was ordered to serve 13½ years behind bars plus an extra year on licence. He’s also hit with an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and must sign the Sex Offenders Register for life. Restraining orders protect all three victims permanently, barring him from any contact.
Police praise victims’ bravery, urge others to come forward
“They were just children when Steven Oxborrow robbed them of their innocence,” said Detective Constable Donna Kay of Hampshire’s Amberstone Unit. “Their bravery was key in securing justice. Oxborrow groomed his victims and their parents, hiding behind a mask of respectability. Today’s sentence offers hope that he can no longer do harm.”
Detective Kay added that Hampshire Constabulary remains committed to supporting victims of sexual abuse and encourages anyone affected to speak out, even if unsure.
Dedicated police unit fights back against abuse
Operation Amberstone, set up in 2016, focuses on tackling serious sexual offences in Hampshire. The unit uses Specially Trained Officers to support victims from initial report through prosecution, aiming to crack down on perpetrators and reduce violence against women and girls.
Victims who aren’t ready to speak to police can find confidential help through numerous support organisations. For more information, visit Hampshire Police support services.
