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A former cub scout leader, labeled as a “paedophile hiding in plain sight,” has received a lengthy prison sentence for the sexual assault of young boys over nearly three decades. Ian Silvester, from Locks Hill in Portslade, East Sussex, was found guilty of preying on victims as young as seven.
Silvester, who held various roles such as babysitter, diving instructor, and first aid trainer, had established trusting relationships with his victims. Despite denying 83 charges of sexual abuse dating back to incidents in Hove and Worthing, he was convicted on 79 counts after a trial at Lewes Crown Court in November.
The 60-year-old was sentenced to 16 years in prison, followed by an additional six years on license, during a hearing on Friday.
In her remarks, Judge Christine Laing KC characterized Silvester as the epitome of a predator who exploited his position of trust with young boys. She pointed out that the abuse occurred frequently and brazenly, often in the presence of others, ultimately creating a “lifetime of shame and regret” for his victims.
The judge emphasized Silvester’s betrayal: “You were in a position of trust with each boy. Your behaviour was a gross abuse of that trust,” she stated, highlighting the roles he held that allowed him access to vulnerable youngsters.
One victim’s impact statement described Silvester as a “monster” who targeted the most vulnerable members of society.
Evidence collected from Silvester’s devices revealed disturbing images and video footage of the abuse, along with alarming online searches related to child exploitation.
The charges against Silvester included 44 counts of indecent assault on a male, 25 counts of sexual activity with a child, along with various other sexual offences, all involving a total of 19 boys between 1986 and 2013.
Nicky Beard, an investigator with Sussex Police, condemned Silvester’s actions as an egregious breach of trust. “He was relentless in seeking and creating roles that provided him with ongoing access to boys, particularly those who were vulnerable,” Beard stated.
In light of these events, the Scouts Association has affirmed that Silvester is permanently banned from any future involvement with their organization, underscoring the association’s commitment to safeguarding young people.
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