DONALD WARHURST OF HADFIELD SENTENCED FOR TEEN RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULTS IN DERBYSHIRE

In February 2000, a disturbing case unfolded involving Donald Warhurst, a 48-year-old businessman from Hadfield, Derbyshire, who was convicted of heinous sexual offenses against multiple young girls. Warhurst, who owned a furniture manufacturing business in Hadfield, was found guilty of raping a teenage girl and sexually assaulting five others over a period spanning from May 1995 to July 1998.

The crimes took place at his residence in Hadfield, where he allegedly used alcohol and drugs to manipulate and incapacitate his victims before subjecting them to sexual assault. The severity of his actions has led to fears that he may have victimized as many as 20 girls aged between 12 and 16, although the court's conviction was based on evidence involving five victims.

The investigation was initiated after two girls approached officers at the Family Protection Unit in Buxton, Derbyshire, revealing details of their encounters with Warhurst. Following this, police expanded their inquiries and interviewed 18 other girls who were considered potential victims, building a case that highlighted a pattern of predatory behavior.

At Manchester Crown Court, Warhurst faced multiple charges. He was convicted of one count of rape and 13 counts of indecent assault involving five girls. The crimes occurred over a three-year period, and the court heard how Warhurst used his position and influence to entrap vulnerable young girls.

In a related case, Fiona Warhurst, aged 25, who was married to Donald, was tried on charges of aiding and abetting rape. She was acquitted of four such counts but was found guilty of one charge of common assault and a charge of causing actual bodily harm. Additionally, Fiona admitted to possessing amphetamines, which further complicated her legal situation. She was released on conditional bail pending her sentencing.

Judge Barry Woodward delivered a stern judgment, condemning Warhurst's actions and describing how he manipulated and threatened his victims to silence them. The judge stated, “You committed offences against them and kept their silence by threats,” emphasizing the predatory nature of Warhurst’s conduct and the betrayal of trust involved.

As a result of his convictions, Donald Warhurst was sentenced to 12 years in prison, a punishment reflecting the gravity of his crimes and the impact on his victims. The case has drawn significant attention to issues of sexual abuse and exploitation within seemingly ordinary communities, highlighting the importance of vigilance and justice in protecting vulnerable young people.