ROBERT POWELL SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS IN JAIL FOR CHILD RAPE IN TORQUAY AND IPSWICH

In a significant case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Torquay and Ipswich, Robert Powell, aged 59 and residing on Cleveland Road in Torquay, has been sentenced to a total of 12 years in prison after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offences involving three young girls. The crimes, which spanned over three decades, included rape, indecency with a child, and indecent assault, highlighting a disturbing pattern of abuse that has left lasting scars on the victims.

Powell’s conviction was the culmination of a lengthy legal process that included a trial held earlier this year. During the proceedings, the court heard harrowing testimonies from the victims, each recounting their painful experiences and the profound impact these crimes have had on their lives. One victim, who was raped by Powell on the eve of her birthday, described her ongoing struggle to come to terms with her trauma. She expressed her anguish, stating, “A man’s liberty is precious and priceless but nothing will remove the sickening memories in my head and my constant nightmares. My childhood was precious. It should not have been ripped away from me.”

Another victim, who endured violent assault at Powell’s hands, questioned her own innocence and asked, “What had I done to deserve it, was it my fault?” The court also heard that some of the offences took place in Ipswich, while others occurred in Paignton, underscoring the geographical spread of Powell’s criminal activities.

In sentencing, Recorder David Bartlett emphasized the long-term suffering inflicted upon the victims. He stated, “In my judgement, all three victims have endured long-term suffering as a result of your treatment of them.” The judge also noted Powell’s apparent lack of remorse, highlighting that he was in denial about his actions and showed no victim empathy.

Powell received a sentence of 10 years for the rape, 21 months for indecency with a child, and four years for indecent assault. These sentences are to be served concurrently, meaning he will serve the longest term of 10 years. Additionally, he was sentenced to two years for the other violent offences, which will also run concurrently with the sexual offence sentences but will be served consecutively to the sexual offences, resulting in a minimum of eight years behind bars. Upon release, Powell will be subject to a 12-year licence period and will be registered on the sex offenders register.

During mitigation, Powell’s barrister, David Evans, remarked on the stigma he now faces, stating, “He faces retirement with the greatest stigma attached. His sullied reputation will follow him to the end of his days.” The court also noted that Powell was found not guilty on 17 other charges, including additional counts of indecent assault and indecency with a child.

Following the sentencing, Detective Chris Oakes from Paignton CID praised the bravery of the victims, referring to them as ‘heroines’. He commented, “It is a hefty sentence. His offences were extremely serious. He sexually assaulted, raped and was guilty of indecency and there were aggravating factors, too horrendous to mention.” Detective Oakes further commended the victims for their courage, saying, “All three women were brave and are all heroines for what they endured, and then re-endured in getting this man convicted.” The case has brought to light the importance of justice for victims of such heinous crimes and the ongoing need for vigilance and support for survivors.