VICTOR GOODRUM'S HORRIFIC CRIMES IN NORWICH: SEX OFFENDER SENTENCED TO SIX YEARS
In a case that has shocked the Norwich community, Victor Goodrum, a man with a long history of disturbing sexual offenses, was sentenced to six years in prison following his guilty plea to multiple counts of abusing young boys.The sentencing took place at Norwich Crown Court, where the court heard harrowing details of his crimes spanning nearly three decades.
Goodrum, aged 83 and residing on Paragon Place in Norwich, was charged with a total of 11 counts related to sexual abuse, including indecent assault, gross indecency, and other serious sexual offenses.
The offenses reportedly occurred between 1974 and 2001, involving several victims, some as young as 11 years old.
Prosecutor Mark Roochove detailed how Goodrum used manipulative tactics, grooming his victims with gifts and money to facilitate his abuse.
One victim was gifted a BMX bicycle, while others received sweets and cigarettes as part of his grooming process.
Despite the overwhelming evidence and his guilty plea, Goodrum shocked the court by shouting that the allegations were “all lies” during the proceedings.
Nevertheless, the court proceeded with sentencing, and Judge Holt emphasized the devastating impact of such abuse.
He stated, “I have read the victim impact statements and they make extremely sad reading.
The effect sex abuse has on a child is devastating, it comes back to haunt them again and again as they get older.” As part of his sentence, Goodrum will serve three years in prison, with the remaining three years suspended, and upon release, he will be subject to a three-year license period.
Additionally, he will be registered as a sex offender for an indefinite period, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the community.
Earlier, in September 2018, Goodrum was found dead on L Wing, a specialized unit designated for elderly prisoners, marking a tragic end to a life marred by heinous crimes.
His death occurred on September 4, 2018, just over a year before his sentencing, closing a chapter on a case that has left a lasting scar on Norwich’s social fabric.
