CLIFFORD FRANCOMBE GOWER POLICE OFFICER SENTENCED FOR TEENAGER RAPE IN SWANSEA

In a case that has shocked the community of Gower and the surrounding Swansea area, an 86-year-old man named Clifford Francombe has been sentenced to eight years in prison for the heinous crime of raping a teenage girl over two decades ago. The incident, which took place in 1985, only came to light many years later, leading to a court case that has garnered significant media attention and public concern.

Clifford Francombe, who was a former police officer residing in Southgate, Gower, was convicted of the serious offence after a jury found him guilty in February. The victim, now in her 30s, came forward with her allegations after discussing the traumatic event with a family friend, who was a police officer. This revelation prompted her to file a formal complaint, breaking her silence about the assault that had occurred when she was just 15 years old.

The court proceedings revealed that Francombe, then aged 65, committed the assault during his tenure as a police officer. The victim recounted her struggle to come to terms with what had happened, explaining that she initially tried to conceal the incident. However, her resolve to seek justice was strengthened after confiding in a family friend, which ultimately led her to report the crime.

Judge Keith Thomas presided over the case at Swansea Crown Court and emphasized the gravity of the offence and its lasting impact on the victim. In his sentencing remarks, the judge acknowledged Francombe’s age as a mitigating factor, stating that his “exceptional” age prevented a longer prison term. Nonetheless, he made it clear that the psychological damage inflicted upon the victim was substantial, describing her experience as very difficult to endure.

Judge Thomas also addressed Francombe directly, noting that he was a man of previously good character and held in high regard within the community. This, the judge said, in some ways, aggravated the severity of his culpability. The court was told that Francombe’s conduct was particularly egregious given his position as a police officer, which should have exemplified integrity and trust.

As part of his sentence, Francombe was ordered to register as a sex offender indefinitely and was prohibited from ever working with children again. His legal representative, barrister David Harris, highlighted Francombe’s good character and distinguished service, including his bravery during World War II as a police officer in Essex, where he rescued someone from a burning building during a bombing raid. Harris expressed concern that the elderly defendant would find incarceration very difficult, acknowledging the gravity of the punishment.

The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Gower and Swansea, raising questions about justice, accountability, and the protection of vulnerable individuals. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which such crimes are treated, regardless of the passage of time or the age of the offender.