Hugh ‘Andy’ Anderson, a respected Oxford restaurateur Sex Offender has had his personal licence removed following his conviction for sexually abusing two women.
Table of Contents
Hugh ‘Andy’ Anderson sex offender
Hugh ‘Andy’ Anderson, residing on Cowley Road, appeared before a municipal licensing panel on Wednesday, August 28th.
Councillors Ian Yeatman, Simon Ottino, and Mark Lygo have revoked Hugh ‘Andy’ Anderson’s alcohol licence for his restaurant, the Hi Lo Jamaican Eating House on Cowley Road.
On April 12 of this year, a jury convicted the 74-year-old of non-consensually groping two ladies over their clothing. One of the incidents occurred on April 23, while the other took place on May 1, 2022.
Judge Michael Gledhill
Judge Michael Gledhill imposed a 52-week prison term on the restaurateur, with 26 weeks for each offence, but deferred it for a period of two years.
In addition, Hugh ‘Andy’ Anderson was mandated to provide £3,500 to the Crown Prosecution Service and was automatically enrolled in the sexual offenders notification requirement register for a duration of 10 years.
Hi Lo Jamaican Eating House
Although the Jamaican restaurant is now marked as closed on the internet, Hugh ‘Andy’ Anderson has expressed his intention to reopen and asserts his continued authorisation to serve meals.
A Thames Valley Police spokesman said: “When the victim subsequently spoke to door supervisors working at the Hi Lo on the night, they stated ‘Yeah he gets like this when he is drunk’.
“This suggests that this behaviour has happened before. It also suggests that Mr Anderson was to a degree in an intoxicated state, which of course clouds one’s judgment.
“Being able to authorise the sale of alcohol, and thereby being put in a position of responsibility and impact over the night out of a member of the public who has chosen to go out and socialise in Oxford is in itself one of great personal responsibility.
“Faith and trust is placed is placed in that individual by the named responsible authorities and the licensing authority.”
Thames Valley Police Force
A meeting paper added: “On July 12, 2024 Thames Valley Police Force licensing officer responded to the request for representation to the notice.
“Their representation detailed the circumstances of the incidents that resulted in Mr Anderson’s convictions and stated: ‘Mr Anderson has been found guilty of serious relevant offences and as such, it is the recommendation of the police to the licensing committee to revoke the personal licence’.”
Mr Anderson had denied the allegations at the trial and said he did not touch the women and they were “working with each other” to accuse him.
The prosecution pointed out that the women did not know each other
Hugh ‘Andy’ Anderson is a well-known figure in Oxford and was previously friends with the young David Cameron who used to frequent the Hi-Lo.
Jamaican culture and sexual assault
Jamaican culture, like many others, has a complex relationship with issues of gender, sexuality, and violence. It is important to approach this topic with sensitivity and recognize that culture is diverse and evolving. In the context of Jamaica, discussions around rape and sexual violence can be influenced by various cultural, social, and historical factors.
Historical and Social Context
Jamaica’s history of colonialism, along with socio-economic challenges, has influenced gender dynamics and attitudes towards violence. Historically, patriarchal norms and systemic inequalities have shaped societal attitudes, which can affect how issues of rape and sexual violence are perceived and addressed.
Cultural Norms and Gender Roles
Traditional gender roles in Jamaican culture can impact perceptions of rape and sexual violence. In some instances, deeply ingrained beliefs about masculinity and femininity may perpetuate stereotypes that contribute to victim-blaming or minimize the severity of sexual violence.
Victim Blaming and Stigma
Victim-blaming and stigma surrounding sexual violence can be significant issues. Societal attitudes that place blame on survivors rather than perpetrators can deter victims from reporting assaults and seeking justice. Such attitudes can be influenced by cultural norms and social expectations.
Legal and Institutional Framework
Efforts to address rape and sexual violence in Jamaica involve legal and institutional frameworks that have seen reforms over time. Advocacy groups and legal reforms aim to improve the handling of such cases and provide better support for survivors. However, challenges remain in ensuring that the legal system is effective and that survivors receive adequate support.
Cultural Initiatives and Advocacy
Various organizations and advocacy groups in Jamaica work to address issues of sexual violence and promote gender equality. These initiatives focus on education, raising awareness, and providing support services for survivors. Efforts include public campaigns, educational programs, and support networks to address and reduce sexual violence.
Media and Representation
Media portrayal of gender issues and sexual violence can influence public perception. Efforts to improve how these issues are represented in media and public discourse aim to challenge harmful stereotypes and promote more respectful and accurate understandings.
Addressing the Issue
Combating sexual violence in Jamaica, as in other contexts, requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society. This includes education on consent and respect, legal reforms to ensure justice for survivors, and cultural shifts towards greater gender equality and respect for all individuals. Engaging communities, supporting survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable are critical steps in addressing and reducing sexual violence.
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.