RODNEY KNOWLES SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS IN PRISON FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN NEWTON ABBOT

In a case that has shocked the community of Newton Abbot, Rodney Knowles, a 61-year-old man with a disturbing history of sexual offenses against children, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 20 years. The conviction follows a detailed trial that uncovered the extent of his heinous crimes spanning over three decades.

Rodney Knowles, who previously worked as a lorry driver, was found guilty on multiple counts related to the sexual abuse of minors. The jury deliberated for a relatively short period, reaching a verdict in less than three hours after a week-long trial. The charges included eight counts of rape, 15 counts of indecency with a child, and seven counts of indecent assault. The victims ranged in age, with one as young as just six years old at the time of the abuse.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Paul Darlow addressed Knowles directly, emphasizing the severity of his crimes. He stated that Knowles had systematically 'groomed' his victims and used threats of violence or harm to silence them and maintain control. The judge condemned the defendant’s actions as calculated and malicious, highlighting the long-lasting trauma inflicted upon the victims. Knowles, who appeared unmoved by the sentence and walks with the aid of sticks, showed no visible reaction as the judge delivered the verdict.

Knowles had consistently denied all allegations, claiming that the accusations were fabricated and exaggerated. His defense attorney, Andrew Oldland, pointed out that Knowles had no prior convictions and mentioned his recent stomach surgery, suggesting that the prison environment might pose additional challenges for his health and dietary needs. The court also considered the impact of the crimes on the victims, who had endured years of trauma and fear before finally summoning the courage to report the abuse to authorities.

The prosecution had initially sought a more severe sentence, with Knowles receiving 18 years for the rapes, two years for the indecent assaults, and an additional 12 months to run concurrently for other charges. The case drew significant attention from the local community and child protection agencies, underscoring the importance of justice for victims of such grave offenses.

Following the sentencing, Detective Chris Amie of the Newton Abbot child protection team expressed satisfaction with the outcome. He stated, 'We are very pleased with the sentence but more than anything I am pleased for the victims who lived with his crimes for many years and feared they might never be able to get justice.' The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and support for victims of child abuse in the Newton Abbot area and beyond.