A MAN from West Cornwall who committed non-recent sexual abuse against children, has been jailed for 15 years plus a year on extended licence.
Herbert Peters was jailed for two counts of buggery and two counts of indecent assault against children, which took place in the 1970s.
Peters, aged 73, of Park Road, Redruth, appeared at Truro Crown Court on February 28, where he was sentenced by HHJ Judge Carr.
In a profound statement written to the court, one of the victims described the impact the offences had on them.
They said: “The best way to describe the last 47 years is that it feels like I have been walking every day with stones in my shoes.
“Every day I feel them and every day it hurts. Some days it hurts more than others and I never know when those days are going to be. I have always been praying for one day when someone will help me to take them out”.
A police investigation began in 2021 when one victim bravely contacted officers to report what had occurred. Peters was interviewed but made no comment except to tell officers that he denied the allegations. He was due to stand trial in January 2025, but pleaded guilty to all offences on the first day.
He was remanded in custody by the court prior to his sentencing.
Investigating officer, Detective Constable Isabelle Woodall, said: “It is a testament to the fortitude and strength of character of the victim, who reported these crimes to the police, provided the evidence in this case, and remained supportive of the investigation throughout, that Peters has finally been brought to justice.
“Peters has shown no compassion to the victims of his horrific abuse at any stage. By choosing to plead guilty at the eleventh hour rather than when first interviewed by police in January 2022, he has prolonged their ordeal unnecessarily by a further three years.
“Whilst nothing can take away the lasting effects of the abuse that they suffered, I sincerely hope that they may now be able to move forward with the rest of their lives.”
If you have been affected by this article there is support available.
People can visit victimcare-dc.org to access support services and information on their rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system.
People can also call victim support on 0808 1689 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s victim care unit on 01392 475900.
Advice and support can also be found at:
National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999.
Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) 0300 3034626.
For more information visit: www.dc.police.uk/Rape-SexualAssault