Jon Iacomino, an organiser at a popular Devon tabletop gaming group and a known figure in the local hobbyist scene, has been sentenced to prison for sexual abuse.
Reports from the West Country confirm that Iacomino, a resident of Honiton, Devon, was arrested earlier this year and has now been jailed. The conviction has sent shockwaves through the local gaming community, where Iacomino held a position of trust as a group organiser and event facilitator.
A Position of Trust
Iacomino was not merely a participant in the hobby but an active organiser. He ran the East Devon Tabletop Gaming Group, an organisation listed in community directories for major industry events, including the UK Games Expo. The group served as a hub for roleplayers and board gamers in the Honiton area.
His visibility in the scene, often facilitating games and managing social gatherings, raises significant safeguarding questions. The UK tabletop community relies heavily on organisers to create safe spaces, particularly for vulnerable players.
The Conviction
According to local news outlet Devon Live, Iacomino was sentenced following an investigation into sexual abuse. The severity of the charges has resulted in a custodial sentence, removing him from the community he once operated within.
While the specifics of the court’s findings are harrowing, the relevance to the Geek Native audience lies in the challenge of safety protocols within grassroots gaming. It serves as a stark reminder to attendees and parents to remain vigilant in vetting community leaders, including those within recognised circles.
A History of Concern in Honiton
This is not the first time the town of Honiton has been linked to serious offences involving figures in the games industry.
Long-time readers or industry veterans may recall the case of Carl Crook. Approximately a decade ago, Crook, who held high-profile roles at major gaming companies such as Wizards of the Coast and Upper Deck Entertainment, was jailed for similar offences against a minor. Like Iacomino, Crook was based in Honiton.
While authorities have not issued a statement explicitly linking the two identities, community researchers have noted the parallels. Both men operated within the same specific geography and the same niche industry, and both have now been convicted of grave offences involving the abuse of trust.
As the tabletop industry continues to grow, the safety of its participants remains paramount. This case highlights the ongoing need for robust safeguarding policies at all levels of play, from local club nights to national conventions.
Support and Resources
If you have been affected by the issues raised in this article, or if you have concerns about the welfare of a child, the following organisations can provide confidential advice and support:
- NSPCC: For adults concerned about a child. Call 0808 800 5000 or visit nspcc.org.uk.
- Childline: For children and young people. Call 0800 1111 or visit childline.org.uk.
- Stop It Now: Confidential help for anyone concerned about child sexual abuse. Call 0808 1000 900 or visit stopitnow.org.uk.
- Met Police Advice: Information on reporting and support organisations is available here.
Editor’s Notes
Why are we reporting this now?
While Jon Iacomino was sentenced earlier this year, the news has only recently circulated within the broader national tabletop community. Court reporting is often localised; unless a specific connection to the gaming industry is flagged at the time, such news can remain within local papers (in this case, Devon Live). The story has gained national traction now due to community members “connecting the dots” regarding his role in the East Devon Gaming Group and the emerging speculation regarding his potential alias.
