Former scout volunteer from Taunton jailed for sexually abusing children
Matt Ellett, 32, was found guilty of 19 offences against five children, following a trial in August this year
A former scout volunteer from Taunton has been jailed for sexually abusing children he met through his work.
Matt Ellett, 32, was found guilty of 19 offences against five children, following a trial in August this year.
Offences and Court Sentencing
Avon and Somerset Police say Ellett presented himself as a role model to gain the trust of both the parents before carrying out the abuse against his victims.
He was sentenced at Taunton Crown Court, sitting at North Somerset Courthouse, today (5 October) to 20 years and eight months in prison, with three years of that to be served on extended licence.
He has also been made subject of a sexual harm prevention order indefinitely.
Victim Impact Statements
Ahead of the sentencing hearing, the court heard personal statements from five victims highlighting the impact of Ellett’s offending on their lives.
“What happened to me took away a part of that innocence far earlier than any child should lose it. Things were introduced into my life that I was far too young to understand or process. Looking back now as an adult, I can see the difference between the young person I was before, and the person I began to become afterwards.”
“I have had to grow up with memories and experiences that no child should ever have to endure. The impact of what happened has affected nearly every aspect of my life.
“I can rest easier knowing that he is behind bars where he cannot hurt any other innocent young person again. I have never felt relief as much as with that first guilty verdict, until today.”
“When I first heard about this, I was in denial – there’s no way someone can be so monstrous to do this to multiple people surely?”
“Only now the court case is over and I’ve been able to let out what happened and speak to people, can I understand how it has really affected me and am able to get the help I needed for so long. So only now can I start my mental recovery.”