Grimsby man jailed for nine years after child sexual offences
Convicted offender given indefinite prevention order
Last updated 15th May 2026
Michael Matthews, a 65-year-old from Southland Court in Grimsby, has received a nine-year prison sentence for non-recent sexual offences against a child.
He was sentenced yesterday at Grimsby Crown Court after being found guilty of ten counts, including causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity and sexual assault.
These offences took place between 2009 and 2015, impacting a young girl.
Matthews denied the charges initially but was convicted by a jury at Hull Crown Court after a four-day trial that concluded on 8th May 2026.
Aside from his jail term, Matthews has also been issued an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Detective Constable Amy Tindell, involved in the case, spoke about the outcome.
“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,” she said.
“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 her 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.