EDWARD OPIE FROM HAYLE SENTENCED FOR RAPE OF TEENAGER IN TRURO

In a case that has shocked the local community of Hayle and the surrounding areas, Edward Opie, an 82-year-old resident of Penpol Vean in Hayle, was sentenced to seven years in prison for the heinous crime of raping a teenage girl. The incident, which took place in 1978, was brought to light after a lengthy investigation that spanned over three years, culminating in a court hearing at Truro Crown Court.

During the proceedings, it was revealed that the victim, a young girl with a mental age estimated at just eight years old, was left pregnant as a result of the assault. The court heard that Opie had pleaded guilty to this particular charge in July, accepting responsibility for the crime. Additionally, he did not contest 11 other charges of sexual abuse, which the Crown had accused him of committing between the years 1960 and 1988. These allegations further underscored a pattern of disturbing behavior spanning nearly three decades.

Judge John Neligan, presiding over the case, delivered a stern verdict, emphasizing the devastating impact of Opie’s actions. He stated that the defendant had “ruined the girl’s life,” a comment that resonated deeply with those present in the courtroom. The judge also noted that the victim had been forced to give up her child immediately after birth, with the baby being adopted out and never seeing her mother again. This detail highlighted the long-lasting consequences of the abuse on the victim’s life.

Prosecutor Joanna Martin argued that the girl lacked the mental capacity to consent to sexual activity, countering Opie’s claims that she had done so voluntarily. The court was told that her mental state at the time of the abuse rendered her incapable of giving informed consent, making the act a clear case of sexual assault.

As part of his sentence, Opie is required to serve at least two-thirds of his seven-year term before he becomes eligible for parole or release on license. Furthermore, he has been ordered to sign the sex offenders’ register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and public safety measures.

Defense attorney Jeremy Leaning defended Opie, asserting that since the commission of the crime, his client had led an unblemished life. Leaning also highlighted that Opie was the primary carer for his 72-year-old wife, who was suffering from health issues. The defense argued that Opie had never used force or threats in his alleged abuse, suggesting that his actions, while criminal, did not involve violence or coercion.

Detective Sergeant Mark Jones, one of the officers from Penzance CID who led the investigation, expressed relief at the outcome. He stated, “The positive outcome in this matter is a great relief to the victim and all the people who supported her throughout this period,” emphasizing the importance of justice and the support network that helped the victim through this difficult process.