Understand
Drayton Manor ride operator admits sexually assaulting 19 girls
Overview
Josef Luke Hammond, a 24-year-old ride operator at Drayton Manor Theme Park, has pleaded guilty to 19 counts of sexual assault against girls under the age of 13. Hammond was arrested in August 2024 after a victim reported inappropriate touching, leading staff to review CCTV and alert Staffordshire Police. He is scheduled to be sentenced on 11 December at Stafford Crown Court.
Key points
- Josef Luke Hammond, 24, pleaded guilty to 19 counts of sexual assault at Stafford Crown Court.
- All victims were girls under the age of 13 visiting Drayton Manor Theme Park.
- Hammond worked as a ride operator at the theme park from March 2024 to August 2024.
- Theme park staff reviewed CCTV after a concern was raised in August 2024, immediately suspended Hammond, and contacted the police.
- Hammond was bailed and is due to be sentenced on 11 December.