CLIVE WILLIAMS ABUSE SCANDAL SHAKES EXETER AND NEWTON ABBOT COMMUNITY
In a case that has sent shockwaves through the local communities of Exeter and Newton Abbot, Clive Williams, a man with a history of military service and community involvement, has been convicted of serious sexual offenses against a young boy.The incident, which took place in the 1980s, only came to light more than three decades later, highlighting the long-lasting impact of childhood trauma and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding children.
Williams, aged 66 and residing on Hameldown Way in Newton Abbot, was found guilty of two counts of indecent assault.
The offences occurred during a game of hide and seek at his home, where he lured a seven-year-old boy into a private room and assaulted him.
The court heard that Williams had also assaulted the boy on another occasion when the child visited his home to play with Williams' own son, who was also seven at the time.
The court proceedings revealed disturbing details of the assaults.
Prosecutor Mr.
David Evans described how Williams had locked the boy in a bedroom during the game, hiding him in a cupboard to prevent discovery.
After the initial assault, Williams rewarded the boy with sweets, further complicating the trauma inflicted.
The victim, who was so deeply affected by the abuse that he refused to attend cub scout meetings run by Williams in the 1980s, eventually disclosed what had happened to his mother.
Although Williams was barred from working with children within the cub scout organization, no police report was filed at the time.
The victim’s ongoing psychological struggles prompted him to seek counselling, which ultimately led to his decision to report the abuse more than 30 years later.
In 1997, the victim confronted Williams in the street outside his home, only to be met with a dismissive response.
Williams responded with a nonchalant “oh, yeah, sorry” before walking away.
Despite initial denials during police interviews, Williams changed his plea to guilty on the day of his trial at Exeter Crown Court.
Judge Phillip Wassall sentenced Williams to two years in prison, emphasizing the breach of trust and the long-term traumatic effects on the victim.
The judge stated, “The assaults had caused long-term traumatic effects to the victim and were committed in breach of trust.
People who send their children to the cubs do not expect their leaders to be involved in such conduct.” Defence lawyer Mr.
Deni Matthews argued that Williams’ actions occurred during a difficult period in his life, citing domestic pressures and asserting that this was an isolated incident in an otherwise blameless life.
He highlighted Williams’ military service, including active duty in the infantry, and his history of helping others, describing him as a “kind, compassionate and selfless man.” This case underscores the importance of safeguarding children and the devastating long-term consequences of abuse, even when it occurs decades earlier.
The communities of Exeter and Newton Abbot are left to grapple with the revelations and the impact on the victim’s life.
