Simon Thomas, the 56-year-old former leader of Sheffield's radical Nine O'Clock Service church, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison at Sheffield Crown Court for a horrific campaign of sexual assault against multiple young female congregants.
The court heard how Thomas, a married father, systematically targeted vulnerable women within his flock, exploiting his position of spiritual authority to commit serious sexual offences over several years.
Abuse of Power and Trust
Prosecutors detailed how Thomas used his role as a spiritual leader to manipulate and isolate his victims, many of whom were young adults seeking guidance. His crimes represent one of the most significant cases of institutional abuse within a modern British religious organisation.
Detective Chief Inspector James Bowie of South Yorkshire Police emphasised the severity of the offences: "Thomas abused his position of trust in the most appalling way imaginable. His actions have had a devastating and lasting impact on the victims, who showed tremendous courage in coming forward."
The Nine O'Clock Service Legacy
The Nine O'Clock Service gained notoriety in the late 1980s and early 1990s for its unconventional approach to worship, combining Christian teachings with rave culture elements. The community attracted young people from across the country before disbanding amid previous controversy.
This case has reopened old wounds for former members and raised serious questions about accountability within alternative religious movements. Church authorities have cooperated fully with the investigation since the allegations surfaced.
Impact on Victims
Victim impact statements read in court described how Thomas's actions caused profound psychological trauma, loss of faith, and lasting emotional damage. Many victims spoke of how his spiritual manipulation made them feel complicit in their own abuse.
His Honour Judge Richardson, in delivering the sentence, stated: "You preyed upon vulnerable young women who looked to you for spiritual guidance. You betrayed their trust in the most fundamental way possible."
Thomas was found guilty of multiple counts of sexual assault following a thorough investigation by South Yorkshire Police's safeguarding unit. He will serve his sentence in a high-security facility and will be subject to lifetime registration as a sex offender.
