RICHARD OWEN'S SHOCKING CHILD ABUSE SCANDAL IN CHEADLE AND ISLE OF MAN

In December 2000, a disturbing case of child abuse involving Richard Owen, a former teacher and house master, came to light, revealing a pattern of systematic misconduct that spanned several years. Owen, aged 58 and residing in Cheadle, was found guilty of five indecent assault charges after a lengthy trial that captivated the local community and drew widespread condemnation.

During the proceedings at the Court of General Gaol Delivery, Deemster Kerruish delivered a stern sentence of four and a half years in prison. The judge emphasized the gravity of Owen’s betrayal of trust, stating, "You grossly abused a position of trust and responsibility. The parents entrusted the children to the school, and the school entrusted the children to you." The court heard how Owen targeted vulnerable children, some as young as eight, while serving as the head of biology at King William’s College from 1971 to 1985, specifically during his tenure as house master of Junior House from 1982 to 1985.

Victims recounted harrowing experiences, describing how Owen would walk around the dormitory, lifting their bed sheets to fondle them in a calculated and predatory manner. These acts left deep emotional scars, with the court acknowledging the distress caused to each victim. The court also heard that in 1985, Dr. Paul Bregazzi, then the college principal, offered Owen the choice to resign or face a full investigation into the allegations. Owen chose to resign and subsequently established a hosiery business in Cheadle, Staffordshire.

It was revealed that Owen had a prior conviction for indecent assault in 1965, before his appointment at King William’s College in 1971. However, Deemster Kerruish clarified that this earlier conviction would not influence the current sentencing, as it was too long ago. Throughout the trial, Owen maintained his innocence, denying all allegations, which meant that each victim was required to give evidence in open court—a process that was undoubtedly traumatic for those involved.

Owen’s defense attorney, Dawn Jones, argued that his imprisonment would have severe repercussions for his family and his business. She highlighted that Owen’s wife would need to manage the business alone while caring for her uncle, who had recently suffered a stroke. She also urged the court to consider the fact that the offenses occurred over 15 years prior and that Owen had since led a diligent and industrious life. Furthermore, she presented letters of support and tributes from former colleagues and pupils, emphasizing his otherwise positive reputation.

Despite these pleas, the court’s verdict underscored the seriousness of Owen’s actions and the profound impact on his victims, reflecting the community’s outrage and the importance of justice for those affected by his misconduct.