Bridgwater man, 76, jailed for sexually abusing child
Roderick Lukins, 76, from Bridgwater, received a custodial sentence of three years and nine months at Taunton Crown Court today (October 16)
A man has been jailed after being convicted of sexual offences against a child.
Roderick Lukins, 76, from Bridgwater, made sexually explicit comments and inappropriately touched a teenager.
Lukins received a custodial sentence of three years and nine months at Taunton Crown Court today (Thursday 16 October).
He also was handed a 10-year sexual harm prevention order.
Avon and Somerset Police said Lukins’ crimes came to light when he approached the child’s family and told them they wanted him to take him to an event in Bridgwater – something the victim said was not the case.
Police added that the family were concerned about Lukins’ request and thought it would be inappropriate.
Over a period of time the victim went on to make several disclosures to people they knew that Lukins had sexually touched them and kissed them, Police said.
The crimes were reported to Avon and Somerset Police in 2022, leading to an investigation by specialist officers.
In July Lukins, of Bell Close, was found guilty of two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity with a child and a further charge of sexual activity with a child.
In a statement prepared for the sentencing hearing, the child’s family said their personality had changed because of what Lukins had done.
They said: “They (The Child) often say that they can’t get them out of their head, and they visualise his actions time and time again causing them to be extremely upset, sad and depressed with many inconsolable tears and regular nightmares.”
The family continued: “They (the child) have been able to have some support from Victim Support services and therapeutic counselling to help with their mental health and emotional wellbeing.
"However, this may need to be continued into the future as they continue to process Rod Lukins’ actions."
DC Phil Hockey, officer in the case, said: “The bravery and courage shown by the victim and their family since reporting this to us has been immense, particularly given a previous trial has to be adjourned meaning it has taken longer for the legal proceedings to conclude.
“The child did absolutely the right thing in telling responsible adults what had happened, because no matter how old you are, that first step is the hardest.
“We hope all victims of sexual abuse take heart from their bravery and come forward to report any similar crimes committed against them.
“All such reports will be treated seriously, all victims will be listened to and believed, and we can help them access support services to suit their needs.”