Former Councillor Sentenced for Child Sex Abuse

Anthony Hampton, a 75-year-old ex-Vale of Glamorgan councillor, was sentenced to seven years in prison for indecently assaulting two boys in the 1990s. The victims, who came forward as adults, feared they wouldn't be believed because of Hampton's influence as a teacher and councillor.

Hampton was convicted of 12 counts of indecent assault following a trial at Newport Crown Court. He was found to have repeatedly rubbed his penis on one boy's shoulders and forced him to masturbate him, while also masturbating in the boy's presence. The second victim was repeatedly touched on the leg near his groin.

In victim impact statements, the first victim said the abuse had a profound impact on his life, making him question his sexuality and causing him to withdraw socially. He feared he wouldn't be believed because of Hampton's position of power.

The second victim described suffering from low self-esteem, depression, body dysmorphia, and a distrust of others as a result of the abuse. He also spoke of struggling with emotional attachment, bed wetting, and attempted suicide.

Hampton, despite being found guilty, continues to maintain his innocence. However, Judge Richard Williams stated that "the character you portrayed to the outside world has been a facade. There is no remorse on your part."

In addition to his prison sentence, Hampton has been placed on the sex offender register indefinitely.