He was arrested in March 2025 following an investigation by the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU). Prosecutor Rabin Govindarajah said Hopkins’ crimes were among the “most serious cases” of child abuse heard at Bournemouth Crown Court in recent memory. He also admitted taking, possessing and sharing child abuse images with other paedophiles. Sentencing Hopkins, Judge Jonathan Fuller said he had been “detection averse” and the evidence would upset even a “hardened police officer”. The judge sentenced Hopkins to 22 years in prison with an extension of eight years, for a total of 30 years in prison.