A 36-year-old individual named Martin Tidder, residing on Brazil Street in Hull, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for targeting three young boys in a series of child sexual offenses, including rape. Despite denying the accusations, Tidder was found guilty by a jury on February 4 at Hull Crown Court. The court heard that the victims suffered severe harm due to the serious sexual abuse inflicted by Tidder, with one victim describing it as “disgustingly destructive.”
Tidder was convicted of multiple charges, including rape, assault by touching, causing sexual activity with a boy under 13, and sexual assault of a child. The prosecuting attorney, David Godfrey, emphasized the severity of the harm caused by Tidder, with victims expressing emotional damage and condemning his manipulative behavior. The court was informed that Tidder engaged in grooming tactics to prevent the boys from reporting the abuse to authorities.
During the trial, it was revealed that Tidder had a preference for young boys and had exposed them to inappropriate material before engaging in sexual acts. Despite the allegations, Tidder maintained his innocence, denying the accusations brought against him by the victims.
Following his conviction, Tidder was remanded in custody and will serve a 14-year sentence with an additional one-year extended license period upon release. He is also required to register as a sex offender for life. During his sentencing hearing, one of the victims noted Tidder’s demeanor in court and expressed relief at the verdict. Tidder’s attempt to leave the courtroom was met with a stumble as he fell to the ground, needing assistance from a custody officer.
The courtroom was filled with individuals connected to the victims, and applause erupted twice as the sentencing concluded. In a statement released by Humberside Police, one victim shared the impact of the abuse and expressed a desire to encourage others to speak out against abuse. The victim thanked family, friends, law enforcement, and the jury for their support and involvement in the case.
