Ex-Scout Leader Jailed for Sexual Assault on Young Girls
Oliver Cooper, 27, has been sentenced to six years behind bars after being found guilty of multiple child sex offences. The former Beaver Scouts leader from Bognor was convicted at Lewes Crown Court on Thursday 15 October.
Horrific Charges and Court Details
- Two counts of sexual assault on a six-year-old girl
- One count of sexual assault on another six-year-old girl
- One count of taking indecent photographs of a child
- 13 counts of voyeurism
Cooper was also handed a lifelong place on the Sex Offenders Register, a Sexual Harm Prevention Order restricting his access to children indefinitely, and a lifetime ban from working with children or vulnerable people.
Investigation Uncovers Disturbing Evidence
The West Sussex Safeguarding Investigation Unit launched a lengthy probe after a child bravely disclosed that Cooper had sexually touched her. Police discovered indecent images and videos of children undressing on his phone and laptop. Another victim later came forward with similar allegations.
Detective Constable Rees Hopcraft said, “The young girls showed tremendous bravery throughout the investigation. Despite overwhelming evidence, Cooper maintained his innocence, forcing victims to give evidence via video link. Judge Mooney noted Cooper’s lack of remorse and called it a ‘colossal breach of trust.’”
Background and Safeguarding Response
Before his role as a scout leader, Cooper was a law student at Sussex University and served four years in the Household Cavalry in the UK.
The Scouts Association and West Sussex Children’s Services were immediately notified of the allegations and have worked closely with police to ensure all safeguarding measures are in place. Parents of children in the group have been kept fully informed. Authorities confirm there is currently no ongoing risk to any child.
Police praised the Scouts Association for their full cooperation throughout the investigation.
