Operation Middleton: major conviction

19/01
11 April 2001

William Alfred Hook was today sentenced at Kingston Crown Court to 10 years imprisonment having leaded guilty to twenty six charges relating to sexual abuse of boys between 1970 and 1978.

This conviction relates to Operation Middleton – an investigation into allegations of physical and sexual abuse in children's homes in South London between 1974 and 1994. It is a joint investigation by the Metropolitan Police and Lambeth Council and is the first investigation of its type in which the Met have worked in partnership with a local authority. It is now widely recognised as a model for investigations into physical and sexual abuse.

Toby Harris, chair of the MPA said:

"During the course of their investigation Operation Middleton has established valuable lessons learnt and best practice which can now be passed on to other inter agency teams.

"Physical and sexual abuse of defenceless and vulnerable children in care, some of whom have already been victims of abuse before being placed in care, is abhorrent. All relevant agencies bear a responsibility to ensure that we work together to eradicate this heinous crime. Those who conspire to place themselves in positions to perpetrate this evil abuse against children can be assured that police, together with other agencies and partners, will continue to pursue them with all vigour.

"Aside from today's conviction, the investigation has led to the arrest of 11 people, 9 men and two women. All the victims that have come forward so far have received assistance and counseling where needed. Those victims who are considering coming forward can do so with confidence, knowing that their experiences will be investigated with sensitivity and professionalism.

"The Met and Lambeth Council are to be commended for the successful conviction of William Hook. Their work together has set techniques and standards for the care and protection for all our children in our communities."

Between 1974 and 1994 Lambeth Council had a duty of care to a total of 7003 young people who lived in 35 homes during that period. In 1994 Lambeth Council closed the last of the homes run by them as a result of concerns about the quality of care. Operation Middleton began in November 1998.

Send an e-mail linking to this page

Feedback