High-Risk Sex Offender Anthony Hooper Jailed for Sexual Assault and SHPO Breach

A high-risk sex offender, Anthony Hooper of Flint, has been sentenced to 52 weeks in prison for sexual assault and breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).

Hooper, 69, was convicted following a trial at Wrexham Magistrates Court. The court heard that Hooper touched his victim in the street, making her feel uncomfortable with unusual comments. The victim was unaware of Hooper's status as a registered sex offender.

Prosecutor Justin Espie described Hooper's behavior as "concerning" and "sexualised," highlighting that Hooper had previous convictions and was subject to a SHPO prohibiting him from speaking to females in a sexual manner unless they explicitly consented. The victim stated in her personal statement that she felt angry and anxious due to the incident, expressing concern about future encounters with Hooper.

Defense attorney Gary Harvey acknowledged Hooper's actions constituted a deliberate breach of his SHPO but conceded that rehabilitation was unlikely. District Judge Gwyn Jones sentenced Hooper to 52 weeks imprisonment, stating that the impact on the victim and Hooper's disregard for responsibility warranted immediate custody. A six-year restraining order was also imposed for the victim's protection.