In a significant victory for child protection, Michael Costin, aged 59, of no fixed abode, has been sentenced to 15 years and three months’ imprisonment for a series of historic sexual offences against children. The sentencing took place at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Wednesday.
The Metropolitan Police’s dedicated team played a pivotal role in bringing Costin to justice, following a comprehensive investigation that spanned several UK locations, including Essex, Suffolk, and Northern Ireland. Detective Constable James Howlett, who led the investigation, commended his team for their diligent work, which involved analyzing vast amounts of material and coordinating with victims across the country.
Costin’s crimes date back to the 1980s and 1990s when he served as a scout leader. He exploited his position to commit heinous acts against vulnerable children, with incidents reported in Rush Green, East London, and Suffolk. From 1982 to 1986, he abused four victims and continued his predatory actions in Suffolk from 1989 to 1994, affecting ten additional victims.
Victims provided harrowing accounts of the abuse, which included sexual assaults at camps, receiving disturbing ‘love letters,’ and being coerced into performing sexual acts. During the sentencing, one victim shared a powerful statement in court, highlighting the strength they found in coming forward and trusting the justice process.
This case underscores the Met’s ongoing commitment to addressing non-recent sexual abuse and safeguarding children from predators like Costin. The force reassures the community that it has specially trained officers ready to support victims through their investigative processes.
Costin had previously been convicted of similar offences in 1996 and was already serving a prison sentence for other sexual crimes committed in the Oxford area between 2007 and 2010. This latest conviction adds to his criminal history, ensuring he remains incarcerated and unable to harm others.
The Metropolitan Police continue to encourage anyone who ha
