KEITH STOCKER, THE PREDATORY CHILD RAPIST FROM BODMIN AND BRIDGWATER, ATTEMPTS SUICIDE AFTER SENTENCING

In April 2012, a disturbing case involving Keith Stocker, a man with a long history of sexual offenses, took a tragic turn when he attempted to take his own life following his sentencing. Stocker, aged 48, was convicted of heinous crimes committed against young boys in the Bodmin area, where his offenses spanned over a decade and a half.

Stocker was found guilty of raping a 14-year-old boy and sexually abusing three other young boys, with victims ranging in age from 10 to 16. His criminal activities were extensive, and his actions prompted the court to impose a severe sentence. He was given an indeterminate term, with a minimum of six years, reflecting the judge’s assessment of him as a dangerous and predatory individual.

He was scheduled to appear again at Truro Crown Court on the following Monday to face a prosecution application for a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, a legal measure aimed at restricting his future conduct. However, the court was informed that Stocker had attempted to end his life shortly after his sentencing on the previous Friday. As a result, he would not be present for the upcoming hearing.

Judge Christopher Harvey QC described Stocker as a “dangerous and predatory man,” emphasizing the severity of his crimes and the ongoing risk he posed to others. The judge highlighted that Stocker’s offenses, committed over a 15-year period, had caused significant harm to his victims, whose ages ranged from 10 to 16. The judge also noted that Stocker’s recent residence was in Bridgwater, Somerset, although his criminal history included previous convictions, notably a three-year prison sentence in 2003 for sexual offenses.

In his sentencing remarks, Judge Harvey QC expressed concern about the potential for future harm, stating, “In my judgment, and in particular because of the conviction for rape, there is a significant risk of harm to others from your future activities.” The case underscored the ongoing threat posed by individuals like Stocker, whose predatory behavior has left a lasting impact on their victims and the community at large.