The Offender Database has reported the death of Sidney Matthews, 90, a convicted predator formerly of Burthouse Lane, Exeter, Devon. Matthews died from severe pneumonia at HMP The Verne in Dorset, just six months into a 14-year sentence for a campaign of horrific and vile abuse against a child.
The investigation by Devon and Cornwall Police led to a trial at Exeter Crown Court, where Matthews was convicted of 11 offences. These included multiple counts of oral rape and indecent assault committed more than 20 years ago. The victim was just six years old at the time the severe abuse began.
Vile Manipulation and Dishonest Lies
The court heard how Matthews callously attempted to ensure the young girl’s silence by telling her that nobody would believe her. He maintained these dishonest lies for decades, but the jury saw through his predatory behaviour and found him guilty of all charges.
The judge emphasised the profound and lifelong impact on the victim, who had carried the weight of Matthews’ evil actions since she was a small child. His 14-year sentence was intended to hold him accountable for the repeated rapes and child abuse he callously inflicted.
Death in Custody and Ombudsman Report
Following his death at the prison in Dorset, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman (PPO) conducted a mandatory investigation. The reported findings concluded that:
- Matthews died of natural causes (severe pneumonia).
- There were no issues regarding his clinical or non-clinical care at HMP The Verne.
- The coroner at his inquest confirmed the cause of death.
Justice and Monitoring
Until his death, Matthews was managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) and was a life-long member of the Sex Offenders Register. While his death in custody brings his physical incarceration to an end, the serious nature of his vile crimes against a six-year-old girl remains a matter of public record. Devon and Cornwall Police continue to emphasise that time is no barrier to justice for victims of historic and predatory abuse.
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