Boston man found guilty of 27 sexual offences against four victims
Jake Hardstaff is due to be sentenced on 25th November
Last updated 24th Oct 2026
A Boston man has been found guilty of 27 sexual offences, including 10 counts of rape, against four victims.
Lincolnshire Police said 35-year-old Jake Hardstaff was convicted following a 14-day trial at Lincoln Crown Court, which concluded on Thursday 22nd October.
Hardstaff pleaded not guilty to all of the allegations.
The four victims were one adult and three girls.
The offences took place between June 2019 and June 2024.
The charges
Hardstaff was found guilty of:
- Causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity without penetration - three counts
- Rape of a child under 13 - two counts
- Assault of a child under 13 by penetration - three counts
- Rape of a woman aged 16 or over - eight counts
- Assault by penetration - two counts
- Sexual assault on a female - seven counts
- Causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent - one count
- Engage in controlling / coercive behaviour in an intimate relationship x 1 count
He was found not guilty of three counts of rape and one count of controlling or coercive behaviour.
Police said the court heard each victim describe years of physical and emotional abuse.
They said there were disclosures of long-term sexual abuse, and of how Hardstaff incited his young victims to engage in sexual contact with him.
Police response
Detective Constable Helen Wood, who led the case, said: "This has been a harrowing case for all concerned. This verdict is testament to the extraordinary courage of the victims, who have endured unimaginable trauma and have shown remarkable strength in coming forward and resilience to endure the - at times - gruelling judicial process. Their evidence, which was given with dignity and bravery, has been central to securing justice."
Detective Constable Wood said: "I would like to recognise the dedication of every officer and professional team involved in this case. Their tireless work, sensitivity, and commitment to safeguarding have ensured that the truth was brought before the court."
Detective Constable Wood said: "This case highlights the importance of coming forward. Time should never stop you from speaking out. If you choose to come forward, you will be heard, believed, and supported every step of the way. We're committed to securing strong, reliable evidence that meets judicial standards, so that we can pursue the justice you deserve."
Sentencing
Hardstaff was remanded into custody and is due to be sentenced on 25th November 2026.
Police said they will continue to support those affected and protect their privacy.
Reporting and support
Lincolnshire Police is urging anyone who has been the victim of rape, sexual assault or any other sexual offence to report it as soon as possible through its website.
The force said people do not need to be 100 per cent sure to get in touch, and that anyone not ready to speak to police can find details of other organisations offering support on its website.
Victims of sexual offences have lifelong anonymity, and readers are asked not to share anything that could identify them.