Two predators who hid in Wiltshire after abusing a 15-year-old boy have been jailed.
Gay couple Adam Hastings, 28, and Reece Upton, 29, groomed the youngster with cash, vapes and energy drinks, Reading Crown Court heard.
When the teen reported the sexual abuse, the duo fled – sparking a nationwide manhunt. They were sighted in Corsham several times, before being arrested in Devizes on 24 June 2024.
Upton, formerly of Reservoir Road, Gloucester, pleaded guilty to one count of sexual activity with a child.
Hastings, of Kingston St. Michael in Chippenham, admitted five counts – including sexual activity involving penetration.
Hastings also accepted two breaches of a previously imposed Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).
The sick pair were off-grid and on the run for 11 days in total, having ditched their mobile phones and bank cards. They had been camping in the Wiltshire countryside, avoiding contact with anyone.
Judge Rowley told Hasting that he ‘lacked any true meaningful remorse’, an jailed him for nine years with a three-year extended licence period.
Upton, who told the court he was ‘influenced by the misuse of alcohol and cannabis’ during the offending timeframe and showed remorse, was jailed for four years.
Both were slapped with SHPOs, which restrict their contact with children and internet use.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Cerys Sumpter said: “This was a complex investigation where Adam Hastings and Reece Upton actively evaded police and were not located for 11 days.
“They were wanted in connection with a number of sexual offences reported by the victim, a boy aged in his teens, which occurred between April and June last year.
“I am satisfied that Hastings and Upton have been given custodial sentences reflecting their crime; however, no punishment can ever compare to the pain and anguish the victim had to endure.
“I hope the conviction will bring them some closure on their ordeal.
“This case also demonstrates that Thames Valley Police take such matters with the utmost seriousness, tirelessly pursuing offenders and doing everything in their power to ensure justice is served.”
