A man has been jailed after being convicted of sexual offences against a child in Somerset.
Roderick Lukins, 76, from Bridgwater, was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison at Taunton Crown Court on Thursday (16 October).
He was found guilty in July of two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and one count of sexual activity with a child. Lukins was also made subject to a 10-year sexual harm prevention order.
His crimes came to light after he approached the victim’s family asking to take the child to an event in Bridgwater – a request the family found inappropriate. Although they had known Lukins for some time and considered him trustworthy, the request raised concerns.
Weeks later, the child questioned why they had not seen Lukins, prompting the family to explain their unease. The victim later disclosed that Lukins had sexually touched and kissed them, with further details emerging over time.
The offences were reported to Avon and Somerset Police in 2022. A full investigation was carried out by specialist officers.
The victim’s family said the abuse had significantly affected the child’s mental health.
They said: “(The child) has found it extremely difficult to erase both his regular sexually verbal and regular sexual physical actions from their mind.
“They often say that they can’t get them out of their head, and they visualise his actions time and time again causing them to be extremely upset, sad and depressed with many unconsolable tears and regular nightmares.”
They continued: “They (the child) have been able to have some support from Victim Support services and therapeutic counselling to help with their mental health and emotional wellbeing. However, this may need to be continued into the future as they continue to process Rod Lukins’ actions.
“This case was also postponed for a year and should have been conducted a year ago so has therefore, extended the impact of these events on all of us, in the fact that we haven’t been able to conclude this case and move on with our lives.”
DC Phil Hockey said: “Lukins’ depraved and sickening crimes will rightly shock and appal.
“The bravery and courage shown by the victim and their family since reporting this to us has been immense, particularly given a previous trial has to be adjourned meaning it has taken longer for the legal proceedings to conclude.
“The child did absolutely the right thing in telling responsible adults what had happened, because no matter how old you are, that first step is the hardest.
“We hope all victims of sexual abuse take heart from their bravery and come forward to report any similar crimes committed against them.
“All such reports will be treated seriously, all victims will be listened to and believed, and we can help them access support services to suit their needs.”
