The Return of Ted Hankey
Ted Hankey, the former world darts champion, was released from prison in 2023, despite being handed a two-year sentence in May 2022. Hankey, now 56, faced serious legal repercussions after pleading guilty to sexually assaulting a teenage girl in September 2021. The incident, which occurred in Crewe, Cheshire, was captured on video, providing irrefutable evidence that ultimately led to his conviction. The court heard that Hankey had pinned the young girl down and, with an ‘air of entitlement,’ carried out the assault. Judge Everett, who presided over the case at Chester Crown Court, was unequivocal in his condemnation of Hankey’s actions. He remarked, "You genuinely believed nobody would believe her, until you were shown the damning evidence. The nature of what you did, the fact that you pinned her down, that air of entitlement… You treated her as an object for your own disgusting and deviant sexual desires."
A Man of Controversy
Hankey’s criminal behavior is a stark contrast to his once-glorious career in darts. Known for his eccentric personality and the nickname "The Count," he often arrived at tournaments dressed as a vampire, adding a theatrical flair to the sport. His journey in darts began in 1998 when he first qualified for the BDO World Championship. Over the years, he achieved significant success, winning the prestigious event in 2000 and 2009, and finishing as the runner-up in 2001. His net worth was estimated to be between £1 million and £8 million, but financial troubles began to plague him, leading to his bankruptcy in 2017 after he failed to qualify for major tournaments. The fall from grace for a man who had once been at the pinnacle of his sport is a tragic tale of hubris and misfortune.
The Legal Proceedings
Hankey’s arrest on September 16, 2021, came just six days after the incident was reported. During questioning, he strongly denied any wrongdoing, maintaining his innocence. However, when confronted with the video evidence, he chose to remain silent, answering "no comment." This strategic decision did not shield him from the weight of his actions. On April 14, 2022, Hankey appeared at Warrington Magistrates’ Court, where he finally pleaded guilty to the sexual assault. The court’s ruling was swift and severe, with Hankey being ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for 10 years and given a two-year prison sentence. The judge’s words during sentencing underscored the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that Hankey’s reputation and earning potential were negligible compared to the harm he had inflicted on his victim.
Life Behind Bars
Life in prison for a former sporting hero like Hankey was certainly a far cry from the boozy, raucous atmosphere of darts tournaments. The transition from a life of fame and competition to one of confinement and shame must have been profoundly difficult. Despite his notoriety, Hankey’s time in prison was marked by a sense of isolation and reflection. The judge’s prediction that Hankey would never play darts again on television seems to have come true, as the sport has largely turned its back on him due to the severity of his crimes. The public’s reaction to his release has been largely negative, with many expressing their disgust and disbelief that he would be set free so soon.
Personal Life in Turmoil
The legal troubles did not exist in a vacuum; they intersected with significant personal upheaval in Hankey’s life. At the time of his sentencing, he was reportedly in the process of being divorced by his wife. The strain of the legal proceedings and the public scandal likely exacerbated an already troubled marriage. Being a father of three, the impact of his actions on his family must have been immense, adding another layer of personal tragedy to his story. The public’s scrutiny and the relentless media attention undoubtedly took a toll on his loved ones, making the family’s journey through this difficult period even more arduous.
Moving Forward
Hankey’s release in 2023 raises many questions about his future and the possibility of rehabilitation. The last chapter of his story, however, remains to be written. While his career in professional darts is effectively over, the broader community’s response to his release will likely be influenced by his actions moving forward. It is a complex and emotionally charged issue, one that demands both empathy and accountability. As Hankey navigates his new reality, the hope is that he will use this experience as a chance to reflect, grow, and make amends for the pain he has caused. For the darts community and the public at large, the focus remains on supporting the victim and ensuring that justice is served in the most meaningful way possible.
