DEREK MURKIN FROM TELFORD SENTENCED FOR DECADES-OLD SEXUAL ABUSE IN SHROPSHIRE AND BERKSHIRE

In a case that has spanned several decades, Derek Murkin, a 77-year-old resident of Telford, Shropshire, was sentenced to four years in prison for a series of heinous sexual assaults committed against a young boy during the early 1970s. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about the abuse, which had remained hidden for years before coming to light.

Murkin, who was frail and appeared to stare blankly as he was led away to serve his sentence, was convicted of multiple counts related to the sexual exploitation of a minor. The victim, now in his 30s, testified that the trauma from the abuse continues to haunt him, with nightmares and voices that torment him even decades later. Judge Ian Grainger described the attacks as disgraceful and reprehensible, emphasizing the severity of Murkin’s actions.

The court heard that Murkin resided at Teagues Crescent in Telford at the time of sentencing. However, the crimes took place years earlier, when Murkin was working as a lawnmower repair salesman. The victim, a boy who was only 13 years old at the time, was introduced to Murkin through a chance encounter involving the boy’s father, who was helping to deliver leaflets for Murkin’s business. Murkin then lured the young boy back to his residence in Reading, Berkshire, offering him money and promising that he could earn a weekly income if he agreed to work for him.

Over a period of three years, from 1971 to 1974, Murkin subjected the boy to repeated indecent assaults at various locations. These included the van Murkin used for his work, his workshop in Reading, and secluded woodland areas near Burghfield. The abuse was systematic and ongoing, with the victim recording between 30 and 40 separate incidents, which only ceased when he reached puberty and Murkin’s interest in him waned.

The disturbing case was brought to light when the victim confided in a police liaison officer following a group therapy session. Prosecutor Jane Davies explained that the victim’s disclosures led to Murkin’s arrest in July of the previous year. During his court appearance at Reading Crown Court, Murkin admitted to 12 counts of indecent assault and three counts of serious sexual assault, acknowledging his guilt in the matter.

Murkin’s history of previous convictions for sex offenses on underage children was also noted during the proceedings, highlighting a pattern of predatory behavior. His sentencing marks a significant moment in the pursuit of justice for victims of childhood sexual abuse, especially those whose cases span many years and have long-lasting effects.