JOHN ROSEWARNE FROM REDRUTH FOUND GUILTY OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN HELSTON COURT

In a case that has shocked the community of Redruth and the surrounding areas, John Rosewarne, a farmer residing at Pencarn Parc, Four Lanes, was convicted of serious sexual offenses involving a young girl. The court proceedings revealed a disturbing history of abuse that took place over a span of two years, beginning when the girl was just 10 years old.

According to the court's findings, Rosewarne was found guilty of one count of sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13, as well as two counts of indecent assault. However, he was acquitted of one count of indecent assault and another of sexual intercourse with a girl under 13. The sentencing for these crimes has been scheduled for a future date, leaving the community awaiting further legal action.

The case first came to light in April 2013, when allegations of child sexual abuse surfaced against Rosewarne, who was then 63 years old. The allegations centered around his farm in Helston, where the abuse reportedly occurred between 1975 and 1977. The victim, now 47, recounted her traumatic experiences during the trial, describing how the abuse began and escalated over time.

She explained that the abuse started subtly, with Rosewarne teasing her and calling her a 'boy' to provoke her. The victim recalled that the first incident of sexual activity occurred when she was about 10 or 11, around the time she had her first bra. She vividly remembered Rosewarne asking to see her bra, which marked the beginning of a series of increasingly invasive acts. She detailed how Rosewarne kissed her, touched her indecently, and eventually engaged in full sexual intercourse with her.

The victim also disclosed that Rosewarne's brother was sometimes present during these incidents, watching silently and instructing her to keep the events a secret. She expressed feelings of confusion and a sense of being special at the time, but now recognizes the gravity of what happened. Her memories, she said, remain clear despite the passage of many years.

Prosecutor Phillip Lee emphasized that there was no doubt the girl was under 13 during the period of abuse. He pointed out that during police interviews, Rosewarne claimed not to have known the girl’s age. However, Rosewarne admitted to having a sexual relationship with her, asserting that it only occurred when she was 16. He described their relationship as 'marvellous,' but the prosecution argued that he must have been aware of her young age, and that his actions constituted nothing less than sexual abuse of a vulnerable young girl.

Defense lawyer Ramsay Quaife challenged the victim’s account, suggesting that her memories might be mistaken or influenced by her feelings of love for Rosewarne. He claimed that she was the one who initiated the relationship and that her recollections were not entirely accurate. The court continues to hear arguments and evidence as the trial proceeds, but the conviction marks a significant development in this troubling case from Redruth and Helston.