RICHARD HEPWORTH FROM ILKLEY AND ST COLUMB FACES JAIL FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE IN TRURO

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Ilkley and St Columb, Richard Hepworth, a 47-year-old man with no current employment, has been convicted of heinous crimes involving the sexual abuse of two young girls under the age of 13. The proceedings took place at Truro Crown Court, where a jury deliberated for more than seven hours over two days before reaching their verdict.

Hepworth, who had been residing in a caravan prior to his arrest, was later bailed to live with his mother in Ilkley, Yorkshire. During the trial, he admitted to possessing extreme pornography involving children and animals, as well as indecent photographs of a child. Despite these admissions, he was acquitted on four charges, including attempted rape, by the jury, which found him not guilty of those specific allegations.

The jury, composed of seven men and five women, ultimately convicted Hepworth on five counts related to the sexual abuse of the two girls. The majority verdicts were 11-1 in favor of guilt, reflecting the strength of the evidence presented against him. The court heard that the crimes were of a very serious nature, prompting Judge Christopher Harvey Clark, QC, to remand Hepworth into custody pending sentencing. The judge emphasized that the case's gravity would likely result in a prison sentence once psychiatric and probation reports are completed.

In addressing the court, Judge Clark highlighted the severity of the offenses, noting that the sexual abuse of children under 13 is a matter of utmost concern. He indicated that Hepworth would face a custodial sentence, reflecting the seriousness of his actions and the need for justice for the victims.

Sergeant Emma Fox, representing Newquay Police, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “I was the officer in charge of the case and as such I am pleased that the result will be some comfort for the victims and families involved that Mr Hepworth was found guilty of the very serious crimes for which he was charged.” She praised the bravery of the child victims, acknowledging their courage in coming forward and giving evidence in court. Sergeant Fox also commended the professional efforts of the police public protection unit and the close cooperation with local authority social services, which contributed to bringing Hepworth to justice at Truro Crown Court.