RICHARD HORROCKS, EX-CANTERBURY PRISON GOVERNOR, SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN CANTERBURY AND HERNE BAY
In a case that has shocked the local community, Richard Horrocks, a former governor of Canterbury Prison, has been convicted and sentenced for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed over three decades ago.The crimes, which involved multiple victims, including children and an adult woman, took place in various locations, notably within the prison environment and the surrounding areas of Canterbury and Herne Bay.
Horrocks, aged 81 and a former Marine with service in the Special Boat Service, was found guilty at Canterbury Crown Court and received a 15-year prison sentence.
His arrest and subsequent trial drew significant media attention, partly due to his previous role overseeing the very institution where some of the abuse occurred.
The court heard that Horrocks had pleaded guilty to six charges of sexual assault involving three children and one woman, all of which took place many years ago.
The proceedings revealed disturbing details about the nature of the abuse.
One of the victims, who was attacked in front of others, bravely addressed the court, recounting how she had lost more than thirty years of her life to Horrocks.
She described her ordeal and her efforts to confront her abuser through email correspondence.
In her message, she questioned him, asking, “Do you eva feel bad about the things u did 2 me?” to which Horrocks responded with remorse, saying, “Of course.
I often feel like doing myself in.
I am so sorry, it made me feel rotten.
I know and I regret it from the bottom of my heart.” Three victims provided statements to the police, detailing the abuse they endured.
Initially, Horrocks admitted to the crimes but later recanted, denying the allegations and accusing the victims of fabricating stories.
Judge Rupert Lowe criticized this response, describing it as a typical “paedophile rationale” and noting that Horrocks had taken “the coward’s way out” by only admitting guilt when facing trial.
During sentencing, Judge Lowe emphasized the profound impact of Horrocks’ actions, stating, “You have ruined the lives of your victims.” The case was further supported by the testimony of prosecutor Vivian Walters, who explained that police were called after one woman reported the abuse, which had occurred in the 1980s.
The victim explained her motivation for coming forward, saying, “She needed closure in her life,” and shared her struggles with mental health, including an attempt at suicide and turning to drugs as a means of coping.
The victim also underwent a lie detector test to substantiate her claims, demonstrating her determination to seek justice and prove her innocence.
The court’s decision underscores the severity of Horrocks’ crimes and the lasting damage inflicted upon his victims, leaving a somber reminder of the importance of accountability and justice in cases of sexual abuse.
