Scout leader is convicted of child sex offences

A former scout leader has been convicted of committing a string of sexual offences against children.

Matt Ellett, from Taunton in Somerset, was found guilty of committing 19 sexual offences against multiple victims by a jury on Wednesday.

During the trial, the court heard he befriended the children through his voluntary work before sexually abusing them.

Ellett, 32, was remanded into custody ahead of sentencing at Taunton Crown Court on 5 October.

Ellett was unanimously convicted by the jury of:

• Five counts of sexual activity with a child under 16
• Two counts of causing or inciting a child under 16 to engage in sexual activity
• Five counts of sexual assault of a child under 13
• Three counts of causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity
• Two counts of causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity and three counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child under 13

Det Sgt Phil Hockey, from Avon and Somerset Police, said Ellett was a "popular" volunteer within the scouts and many of the children's parents believed he was a "positive influence".

But he added: "The outward character Ellett portrayed though acted as a way for him to earn a position of trust, which he exploited for his own horrific sexual gratification.

"These verdicts do not undo or reduce the enormous pain Ellett caused them and their families, but we sincerely hope they provide some relief to all those affected by his crimes."

Hockey added that Ellett's denial of the crimes and subsequent trial were "incredibly difficult" for those giving and listening to evidence in court, but praised the victims' "courage from start to finish".

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