Understand
Former Taunton scout leader Matt Ellett jailed for 20 years and eight months for child sex offences
Overview
Matt Ellett, a 32-year-old former scout leader from Taunton, has been sentenced to 20 years and eight months in prison after being unanimously convicted of 19 sexual offences against multiple children. Operating over a five-year period, Ellett abused his position of trust to befriend victims and coerce them into silence. Judge Richard Shepherd condemned him as a manipulative and dangerous predator, while victims shared the devastating psychological and physical trauma caused by his actions.
Key points
- Matt Ellett, 32, was sentenced to 20 years and eight months in prison following his unanimous conviction for 19 sexual offences against multiple children.
- The offences were committed against victims whom Ellett befriended through his voluntary role as a scout leader in Taunton.
- Judge Richard Shepherd described Ellett as a 'skilled liar', 'coward', and manipulative predator who used threats of suicide to coerce victims into staying quiet.
- Victims detailed severe long-term impacts in court, including physical body spasms, trauma associated with woods, nightmares, self-harm, and struggles with trust.
- Ellett was also subjected to an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and a three-year extension order.