“Repugnant” sex offender sentenced to nine years

NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE

A sex offender who committed “repugnant” crimes against a child has been sentenced to nine years in prison and has received an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order after being found guilty of non-recent child sexual offences.

Michael Matthews, 65-years-old, of Southland Court in Grimsby, appeared at Grimsby Crown Court for sentencing yesterday (Thursday, 14 May 2026) having pleaded not guilty to nine counts of causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity and sexual assault of a child under 13.

Following a four-day trial at Hull Crown Court which concluded on Friday, 8 May 2026, Matthews was found guilty by a jury of all ten offences after an investigation was launched by our Protecting Vulnerable People Unit relating to sexual offences against a young girl between 2009 and 2015.

Officer in the case, Detective Constable Amy Tindell remarked on the case: “I would like to start by commending the sheer bravery of the person subjected to this abuse for her strength throughout the entirety of the investigation and the complexities of court proceedings.

“Matthews abused his position of trust and preyed on an innocent child for his own repugnant sexual gratification. I am reassured that he is now facing considerable time behind bars.

“Investigations of this nature are extremely complex and can be prolonged, but Matthews added to by refusing to admit his guilt and making them endure the gruelling ordeal of a trial.

“Whilst the result at court will not take away the pain and suffering endured by the person he abused, I hope it will bring a sense of justice to them and their family that Matthews will finally face the consequences of his abhorrent actions.

“I would like to reassure anyone who has suffered sexual abuse, whether recent or historical, that you will be listened to and supported.

“We take all reports of this nature incredibly seriously and whenever victims are ready to come forward, we will be there to listen and will act relentlessly to ensure sex offenders like Matthews are held accountable for these detestable crimes.

“If you are not ready to talk to us, there are lots of organisations you can speak to privately and confidentially.

“For more support and guidance, and to hear from Jamie, a sexual abuse survivor who waived her legal right to lifelong anonymity to tell her story and encourage others to tell someone, visit: Tell Someone | Humberside Police.”