In 2026, the Offender Database reported that Thomas Hobbs, then 79, of Northumberland, was sentenced to 22 years in prison at Newcastle Crown Court. Hobbs was found guilty by a jury of rape, causing a child to engage in sexual activity, assault by penetration, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm (ABH).
The investigation established that Hobbs was separately abusing two children. While his previous offending resulted in a 19-year sentence in September 2024, these latest charges related to a second victim. The court heard that Hobbs would tell the young girl they were “just playing” before committing the abuse.
“Sadistic” Violence and Threats
The court reported that Hobbs reacted with anger when the victim stated she did not enjoy the abuse. Recorder Toby Hedworth KC noted that Hobbs would hit the girl or slam her against a wall. In one instance, Hobbs burned the child’s hand with a gas cooker as punishment.
Hobbs further coerced the victim by stating:
“If anyone finds out I’ve done this, I will stab your whole family and yourself.”
The victim’s mother provided an impact statement describing how her daughter’s quality of life has changed. She noted the girl now avoids others, particularly older men, and has engaged in self-harm due to the devastating effect on her mental health.
Sentence and Concurrent Terms
For his crimes in Northumberland and the hearing in Newcastle, Thomas Hobbs was:
- Sentenced to 22 years in prison.
- Handed an extended licence period of one year.
- Placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
The judge directed that this 22-year sentence will run concurrently to the 19-year sentence Hobbs received in 2024. This means he will serve the longer of the two terms rather than the sentences being added together.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Hobbs is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by Northumbria Police. His status and his history remain under “critical” scrutiny to ensure public safety.
As a lifetime member of the Sex Offenders Register, Hobbs must comply with notification requirements for the rest of his life. Northumbria Police state that they will continue to support survivors of such “appalling” abuse. Any breach of his registration or licence conditions will result in further legal proceedings at Newcastle Crown Court.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.