Liam Hibberd

Liam Hibberd, a 35-year-old resident of Carlton Road in Ryde, Isle of Wight, was sentenced to three years and three months in prison at the Isle of Wight Crown Court on October 30, 2024, following his admission to inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

The offences occurred between January 2017 and October 2018, during which Hibberd sexually abused a six-year-old girl in Ryde. The court heard that the abuse involved grooming the victim, leading to significant and lasting trauma. The victim reported continuing to suffer from nightmares as a result of the incidents.

Hibberd initially denied the charges but admitted guilt partway through his trial. His defence stated that he was ashamed and remorseful, describing him as 'too cowardly' to confess earlier. Judge James Bromige commended the victim's bravery in providing evidence during the proceedings.

Prior to this conviction, Hibberd had four previous convictions. In addition to his custodial sentence, he was made subject to indefinite police notification requirements, restraining orders, and a 15-year sexual harm prevention order to protect the public from further offences.

The case was prosecuted by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, with the full court report published by the Isle of Wight County Press.