An Andover woman has been jailed as part of a major child sexual abuse investigation that concluded at Winchester Crown Court on Friday 13 February.
Sarah Johnson, 57, of Tintagel Close, Andover, was sentenced to 11 years in prison after admitting 18 offences, including taking and distributing indecent images of children. She will also be subject to an extended licence period of one year.
The case was investigated by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Major Crime Team and involved four defendants in total.
Main Offender Jailed for 26 Years
Elliot Jones, 49, formerly of Chantry Lane, Necton, Norfolk, admitted 21 charges including sexual activity with a child and making indecent photographs of children. He was sentenced to a total of 34 years — consisting of 26 years in custody and an extended licence period of eight years.
In sentencing, Judge Adam Feest described Jones as a “highly manipulative and exploitative individual” and said the risk he posed “is of the highest order”.
The court heard that Jones abused and encouraged the abuse of children over a number of years, with offences taking place in different parts of the country.
Other Sentences
Heidi Ludbrook, 45, of King’s Lynn, Norfolk, admitted ten offences including causing a child to engage in sexual activity and taking indecent photographs of a child. She was jailed for seven years.
Catarina Araujo, 46, of Dereham, Norfolk, admitted two offences and was given a 12-month custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months.
All four defendants will be subject to indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Orders and notification requirements.
Investigation Details
The abuse first came to light when one victim reported it as an adult. Further enquiries identified additional victims. Police seized multiple devices, including phones, USB sticks and hard drives, which contained indecent images and videos evidencing the offences.
Detective Sergeant Sam Grant of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary said:
“This is an appalling case. The offences spanned a number of years and had one common theme – Jones’ manipulative behaviour. I want to commend the victims for the courage they have shown throughout this process. Their bravery has brought these four people to justice.”
Police are encouraging anyone with concerns related to the case to contact them on 101 or via the online portal:
https://mipp.police.uk/operation/44HC24N01-PO1
Support services are also available:
- Hampshire Police support information:
https://www.hampshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/ - Child abuse support:
https://www.hampshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/caa/ - Childline: 0800 11 11
- NSPCC (for adults affected): 0808 800 5000