A man pretended to be disabled to avoid punishment for his crimes.

John Siddell, 41, went to social events and was filmed walking while lying about being very sick.

His brother James helped him deceive people about his health.

John Siddell hurt children under 14 from 2018 to 2021 and was jailed for 15 years. His brother got 2 years and 9 months for lying.

The judge said the brothers were sneaky and dishonest. They lied about John's abilities to avoid justice.

The prosecutor said the brothers had a secret life. Their social life showed their lies through social media and photos.

John Siddell was jailed for 15 years plus 2 more years.

When John seemed sick, it was different from when he was seen walking and talking at his social club.

He took selfies smiling and walking without help. He used his wheelchair to move things, not himself.

Someone who took care of him in the hospital said he was very talkative despite being called non-verbal.

James Siddell got 2 years and 9 months in prison.

The judge said John stayed in the hospital for 2 weeks, wasting taxpayer money and taking a bed from someone who really needed it.

John tricked psychiatrists into thinking he was too sick for trial by not talking or opening his eyes.

A jury decided John had abused the boys.

John was called the most talkative non-verbal person.

A psychiatrist found no reason to believe John was unfit for trial.

A police officer saw John sitting up and talking before he pretended to be sick for his assessment.

The brothers didn't go to a hearing, claiming John had a seizure.

Photos showed John out with friends many times.

John admitted to many crimes against children under 13.

Both brothers admitted to lying to the court.

The victims are still dealing with the effects of the abuse.

The brothers didn't attend their sentencing.

John's lawyer said he's vulnerable and has many health issues. His relatives made his health issues seem worse for money.

James's lawyer said his client comes from a dysfunctional family that relies on benefits.