Featured image: A teal-colored control panel with multiple indicator lights is the main subject. AI-generated image; not a photograph of the reported event.
A ride operator at Drayton Manor has pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting 19 girls, all under 13. The offences happened during his employment at the park. Source: bbc.co.uk.
What Happened
In August 2024, a girl reported inappropriate touching by a staff member during a ride at Drayton Manor. The parent shared the incident with park staff.
Staff reviewed CCTV footage and found Josef Luke Hammond, 24, from Birmingham, in areas where children were present. He was suspended within hours and later dismissed.
Police were called the same day. They arrested Hammond and questioned him. He appeared at Stafford Crown Court and admitted 19 counts of sexual assault. He was granted bail for sentencing on 11 December.
Key Facts
- Hammond worked at the park during his employment.
- Drayton Manor conducted full safeguarding checks: reference checks, CCTV reviews, and in-person supervisor assessments.
- Police urge parents: if they suspect their child was touched inappropriately, they should contact police right away.
- Hammond was arrested on the same day the incident was reported. The response was fast and coordinated.
Responses from Authorities
Det Insp Vanessa Furnival of Staffordshire Police said: “The victims showed great courage in coming forward. Their support helped secure justice.”
She added: “Drayton Manor staff acted quickly to remove Hammond. That helped stop further exposure and shows real commitment to child safety.”
A Drayton Manor spokesperson said: “We were appalled by these incidents. Child safety is our top priority. Hammond was suspended and dismissed immediately.”
The park confirmed all safeguarding procedures were followed. These include staff background checks, regular CCTV monitoring, and in-person supervisor reviews.
How the Investigation Unfolded
A parent told their child about a staff member touching them in an uncomfortable way. The parent reported it to park staff.
Staff reviewed CCTV and found Hammond near children during ride operations. He was removed from duties and placed on administrative leave.
Police launched a formal inquiry. They interviewed victims, staff, and supervisors. The court admitted 19 counts, confirming the seriousness of the misconduct.
Public details about the incidents — including locations, nature, or specific cases — have not been released. Authorities protect victims’ privacy, which follows standard child protection rules.
Why This Matters
This case shows serious gaps in how theme parks manage staff oversight. Ride operators have direct access to children during rides.
It calls for stronger background checks, better training on child protection, and clearer reporting paths. Supervision in high-traffic areas must be standard across all entertainment venues.
Parents are urged to stay alert. Police accept reports from any concerned person, even if no formal incident has been reported.
Limitations and Open Questions
It’s not public how many victims reported the incident or how many were directly identified. Some incidents may not have been reported.
There is no public data on whether similar cases happened at other parks or in similar roles. Such cases could point to a wider issue needing system-wide reform.
While the park and police acted quickly, long-term safety changes are still being evaluated. A full safeguarding review is expected in the coming months, with a public report likely to follow.
What to Watch Next
Parents should stay alert and report any concerns to local police. This case may lead to a wider review of child safety in UK theme parks.
Drayton Manor will publish a detailed report on its staff vetting, incident reporting, and response processes. It may serve as a model for other venues.
Police will continue monitoring the case. Updates may come as new information emerges. The sentencing will be a key moment in child protection discussions in public spaces.
For more information, visit the original BBC News article: BBC News.
