PAUL RUTH FROM AMESBURY AND PLYMOUTH: HORRIFIC CHILD SEX OFFENDER STRIKES AGAIN AT CORNWALL ARMY CAMP

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Amesbury and Plymouth, Paul Ruth, a man with a long history of sexual offenses against minors, has admitted to heinous acts committed nearly two decades ago at a military training site in Cornwall. Ruth, aged 55 and residing on Finnis Road in Amesbury, pleaded guilty to two counts of serious sexual assault, specifically buggery, which, under current legal standards, would be classified as male rape. These offenses took place between 1990 and 1994 at the now-defunct Penhale Army Camp, located in Holywell Bay near Newquay, a site that historically hosted cadet training trips from across Devon and Cornwall until its closure in 2010.

The court proceedings, held at Exeter Crown Court, saw Judge Peter Johnson adjourn the sentencing to later in the week to allow the victim, who was between 16 and 20 years old at the time of the assaults, to be present. The victim, who has chosen to deliver a personal statement, detailed the profound and lasting impact that Ruth’s actions have had on his life. This statement is expected to be read aloud during the sentencing hearing, emphasizing the emotional and psychological toll inflicted by Ruth’s predatory behavior.

Prosecutor Mr. Ray Tully outlined the victim’s account, highlighting the deep scars left by Ruth’s abuse. Meanwhile, Ruth’s defense attorney, Mr. Nick Lewin, expressed Ruth’s desire for a swift sentencing, noting that Ruth is currently held at Exeter Prison and wishes to be transferred back to Parc Prison in Wales, where he is serving an existing 12-year sentence for a series of sexual offenses against boys.

It is noteworthy that Judge Johnson previously sentenced Ruth in April 2018 at Plymouth Crown Court to a total of 12 years for a series of 17 sexual offenses committed against six victims between 1991 and 2009. These offenses involved victims aged between 10 and 16, and Ruth exploited his roles as a teaching assistant, cadet leader, school governor, and boxing coach to target vulnerable children. Ruth’s pattern of abuse extended over nearly two decades, during which he used his positions of trust to manipulate and exploit young boys.

Ruth’s arrest in 2016 followed an investigation into his long history of abuse, which child protection officers described as ‘abhorrent’. During the 2018 trial, victims recounted how Ruth, nicknamed ‘Paedo Paul’ by some, would often place his hand on their knees while in his car, and would buy them sweets and gifts to maintain their silence and compliance. The abuse was primarily carried out through his work as a coach and cadet leader, rather than through his employment at schools in Plymouth.

Victims have spoken about the lifelong trauma they suffer, with one revealing that the abuse nearly drove him to take his own life while serving in the army. He recounted having a bullet in his gun, ready to end his life, but was disarmed by a friend. This victim’s story underscores the devastating psychological impact of Ruth’s actions, which have left scars that persist to this day. Many victims found it difficult to speak out initially due to fear and shame, but some bravely confronted Ruth in court, leading to his imprisonment.

Outside the court, one victim expressed relief, stating, “I am just glad we came forward. I am glad he is not on the loose anymore.” Judge Johnson emphasized the severity of Ruth’s crimes, stating, “You have caused almost unimaginable harm to your victims. They had the courage to come forward and expose what you had done to them, and to describe how their lives have been affected. The impact of your actions will be felt by generations to come.”

Ruth’s criminal record is extensive. In addition to the current charges, he has admitted to 17 sexual offenses against six victims spanning from 1991 to 2009, including indecent assault, buggery, attempted buggery, and other sexual acts. Ruth’s history of abuse also includes allegations of inappropriate conduct while working as a teacher in Plymouth, although the recent charges focus on his conduct at the army camp in Cornwall.

Following his latest guilty pleas, Ruth was ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which prohibits him from contacting anyone under the age of 16. His sentence will see him serve a minimum of eight years before being considered for parole, and he will remain under supervision for six years after his release, reflecting the court’s view of him as a significant danger to children. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and the ongoing need to protect vulnerable young people from predators like Ruth, whose manipulative tactics and abuse of authority have caused irreparable harm.