A ride operator at a Staffordshire theme park has pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting 19 girls, all younger than 13, in a case that prompted swift action from both the venue and law enforcement authorities. Josef Luke Hammond, 24, from Birmingham, admitted to 19 counts of assault against minors at Stafford Crown Court on Monday, with sentencing scheduled for 11 December at the same court.
The offences came to light after a parent reported that Hammond had touched their child inappropriately while working at Drayton Manor Theme Park. According to local reporting, the initial complaint was filed in August 2024. Park staff reviewed CCTV footage following this report, which led to Hammond being sent home from work that same day. Police were notified immediately, and he was arrested later that afternoon.
Hammond held the position of ride operator at Drayton Manor from March 2024 until August 2024, when his employment was terminated. The investigation by Staffordshire Police ultimately identified 19 victims across the period he worked at the park. According to police records, Hammond pleaded guilty to 19 counts of assaulting a girl under 13 by touching on 12 October 2026.
Support for victims and families
Detective Inspector Vanessa Furnival from the Staffordshire Police child protection team emphasised the resilience shown by those affected.
I'd like to recognise the bravery of the victims in this case who have all shown immense courage in coming forward and supporting us with our efforts to secure this outcome.She also praised the theme park's response, stating:
I'd also like to recognise the rapid response from staff at Drayton Manor, who immediately removed Hammond from his duties.
Parents and s who believe their child may have been a victim are being encouraged to contact authorities. According to police guidance, anyone with concerns can call 101 and speak to specialist officers in confidence.
Theme park's response and safeguarding measures
Drayton Manor released a statement expressing their position on the incidents. A spokesperson said the park was
appalledby what had occurred, emphasising that visitor safety—particularly that of children—remained their
highest priority. The statement continued:
As soon as concerns were brought to our attention, the individual was immediately suspended and then dismissed from their employment.
The park outlined the safeguarding procedures it has in place to protect visitors.
We recognise the impact that such incidents can have on victims and their families, and we commend those who came forward and supported the investigation.The venue confirmed that staff reference checks, CCTV monitoring, and in-person supervisor checks are all carried out as part of their safeguarding processes.
Key Facts
- Josef Luke Hammond, 24, pleaded guilty to 19 counts of sexual assault against girls under 13 at Stafford Crown Court on Monday
- Hammond worked as a ride operator at Drayton Manor Theme Park between March and August 2024
- The investigation began after a parent reported inappropriate touching; CCTV review led to his arrest the same day
- Sentencing is scheduled for 11 December at Stafford Crown Court
- Anyone with concerns can contact police on 101 to speak with specialist officers
