Derek Hinchliffe

Derek Hinchliffe, a former youth coach at Southend United, was sentenced to seven years and seven months in prison at Southend Crown Court in March 2025 for historic sexual abuse offences against four boys committed in the 1970s. A pre-sentence report revealed that Hinchliffe showed “no remorse or victim empathy” for his actions.

The court proceedings detailed how Hinchliffe, who held a position of trust, exploited young boys under his coaching guidance, subjecting them to repeated sexual abuse over several years. The case came to light decades later through victim testimonies, leading to Hinchliffe’s conviction for these child sex offences. Judge at the hearing emphasised the betrayal of trust inherent in Hinchliffe’s role, which facilitated his predatory behaviour.

This sentencing formed part of The Echo’s coverage of significant 2025 cases from Basildon, Southend, and Chelmsford Crown Courts, highlighting the long-term pursuit of justice for historical sexual exploitation. The absence of remorse noted in the report underscored the offender’s lack of accountability, contributing to the severity of the imposed sentence.