PETER COOPER, THE PERVERTED EX-GP FROM MINEHEAD, SENTENCED IN TAUNTON COURT

In a case that has shocked the local community of Minehead and the surrounding areas, Peter Cooper, a 95-year-old retired general practitioner, has been sentenced to four years in prison for serious sexual offenses committed against a young girl. Cooper, once regarded as a respected figure and a 'pillar of the community' in Minehead, was found guilty of abusing a six-year-old girl over an extended period, engaging in inappropriate and perverted acts that have left lasting scars on the victim.

Cooper’s background includes a distinguished career as a family doctor spanning four decades, as well as service as an Army officer. Despite his long-standing reputation, his dark secret was uncovered in late 2014, when members of the girl’s family confronted him on Boxing Day. The confrontation led to Cooper’s admission of the abuse, prompting police to launch an investigation. The details of the case revealed that Cooper had made numerous 'perverted attempts' to sexually arouse the innocent child, actions that were particularly heinous given his position of trust and influence within the community.

During the court proceedings at Taunton Crown Court, Cooper, who was approaching his 96th birthday, was allowed to sit beside his solicitor at the back of the courtroom due to mobility issues. When he was finally taken into custody following his conviction, he was escorted out on sticks to prevent difficulties with stairs leading to the cells. Cooper pleaded guilty to charges of indecency and indecent assault against the young girl, acknowledging his guilt in a manner that underscored the gravity of his crimes.

Prosecutor Sam Jones highlighted the severity of the case, emphasizing that Cooper’s shameful secret was revealed after the family’s confrontation. The police were promptly notified, and Cooper was arrested at his residence in Minehead, Somerset. During police interviews, he responded with a simple 'no comment,' refusing to provide any explanation or remorse.

In a poignant victim impact statement read in court, the young girl expressed her profound suffering, stating that she would never again trust males. She described the abuse as having a 'massive' impact on her life, severely damaging her confidence and sense of security. The girl also remarked on Cooper’s professional status, noting that as a doctor, he should have been aware of the devastating effects his actions would have on her. Her words reflected her disappointment and betrayal, as she expected honesty and integrity from someone in his position.

As Cooper was led away to begin his sentence, the case served as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children and the devastating consequences when trust is broken by those who are supposed to protect them.