Roderick Lukins

Roderick Lukins, a 76-year-old resident of Bell Close in Bridgwater, Somerset, has been sentenced for committing serious sexual offences against a child. At Taunton Crown Court on 16 October 2025, Lukins was found guilty on two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and one count of sexual activity with a child. The court heard that Lukins, who had gained the trust of the child's family over several months, exploited his position to abuse the victim.

The offences came to light in 2022 when Lukins approached the child's family, expressing a desire to take the teenager to an event in Bridgwater. The family, sensing something inappropriate, grew concerned and declined. Shortly after, the child inquired about Lukins' absence, prompting the family to voice their worries. Over time, the victim disclosed to trusted individuals that Lukins had sexually touched and kissed them on multiple occasions. These revelations led the family to report the matter to Avon and Somerset Police, initiating a thorough investigation by specialist officers that culminated in Lukins' arrest.

The impact on the victim has been profound, as detailed in a statement from the child's family prepared for the sentencing hearing. The statement described how the child struggles to erase the memory of Lukins' 'regular sexually verbal and regular sexual physical actions,' leading to persistent visualisation of the events, extreme upset, sadness, depression, inconsolable tears, and regular nightmares. The family noted that the child has received support from Victim Support services and therapeutic counselling to aid their mental health and emotional wellbeing, though ongoing assistance may be required. The delay in the case, postponed for a year, exacerbated the trauma, preventing the family from moving forward.

Detective Constable Phil Hockey, the lead officer in the investigation, condemned Lukins' actions as 'depraved and sickening crimes' that would shock and appal the public. He praised the 'immense bravery and courage' of the victim and their family, especially given the adjournment of a previous trial, which prolonged the legal proceedings. Hockey emphasised the importance of victims coming forward, stating that the child 'did absolutely the right thing in telling responsible adults what had happened,' and encouraged others to report similar abuses, assuring that all reports are treated seriously.

Lukins was sentenced to three years and nine months' imprisonment and received a 10-year sexual harm prevention order to restrict his future behaviour and protect the public. The case underscores the vulnerabilities exploited by trusted individuals and the critical role of police investigations in delivering justice.