A FORMER scout leader has been jailed for a string of historic sex offences against a boy.

Reading Crown Court heard how Christopher Hale, of no fixed abode but previously lived in Swindon, admitted the string of offences that happened 35 years ago.

The 73 year old pleaded guilty to one count of buggery, and three counts of indecent assault and taking an indecent image of a child.

The victim in these offences was a boy, and they happened more than three decades ago when Hale was a scout leader in Berkshire.

Hale also pleaded guilty to a number of offences related to possession and making of indecent and prohibited images of children. These were discovered on numerous devices, which were seized when the former scout leader was arrested.

Police began investigating the offences after a report was made to officers in January 2020. Hale was then traced and arrested in June 2020 and charged on December 2021.

He pleaded guilty to the offences on at Reading Crown Court in January 2023, and was sentenced at the same court on March 20, 2023.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Cerys Sumpter, said: “This was a lengthy and complex investigation from a report that was received to us over 35 years after the offences took place.

“I am satisfied that Hale has been given a lengthy custodial sentence, however this will not compare to the pain and anguish the victim had to endure for all those years, I hope that the conviction brings to them some closure on their ordeal.

“Hale used his position of influence as a Scout leader to abuse his victim, when he should have been someone who could be trusted and a support for those in his care.

“I hope that this case also shows that time is no barrier to justice and we would advise if you have been a victim, however long ago, please do come forward and report. We will take the matter seriously and bring offenders to justice.

“You can report online or by calling 101, or you are in immediate danger then please call 999.

“There is also further information and support for victims on our website.”

Hale was sentenced to 12 years’ three months in prison following his sentencing at Reading Crown Court on Monday, March 20.