Jason Hardman

Jason Hardman, a 51-year-old man from Thorpe Hesley, was jailed for eight years at Sheffield Crown Court on Monday for the 'abhorrent' sexual abuse of two children that occurred more than 30 years ago in Rotherham, South Yorkshire.

The offences took place in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Hardman had denied nine charges, including indecent assault, attempted rape, and gross indecency with a child, but was found guilty following a trial at Sheffield Crown Court. The case came to light in 2022 when one of the victims reported the abuse to South Yorkshire Police, providing a detailed account of years of sexual abuse suffered during childhood.

Through further investigations, a second victim was identified, leading to Hardman's arrest and subsequent charges. The court heard evidence of the prolonged and severe nature of the abuse inflicted on the young victims in Rotherham.

Investigations officer Julie Towers, who led the case for South Yorkshire Police, commended the courage of both victims in coming forward. She stated: 'I hope this result shows that it is never too late to disclose any incidents of sexual offences and rape.' Hardman was also ordered to sign the sex offenders register indefinitely as part of his sentence.

The sentencing reflects the gravity of the historical child sex offences, with the judge describing the abuse as 'abhorrent'. South Yorkshire Police's thorough inquiries ensured that justice was served decades after the crimes were committed.