A Paedophile from Redruth, Herbert Peters, convicted of historical child sexual abuse, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison, with an additional year on extended licence.
Herbert Peters was incarcerated for two charges of buggery and two charges of indecent assault on minors, occurring in the 1970s.
Herbert Peters, 73, of Park Road, Redruth, appeared at Truro Crown Court on 28 February, when 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.
Herbert 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 today.
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.
“Herbert 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 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.