DARRELL PELL SENTENCED TO EIGHT YEARS IN CHESTER FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES

In August 2012, Darrell Pell, a 27-year-old from Blacon, was sentenced to eight years in prison after being convicted of four child sex offences, which included the rape of a young girl and sexual assault of another. Following his conviction at Chester Crown Court, he was also placed on the sex offenders register for life.

Cheshire Police launched their investigation into Pell last year after his victims—both of whom were primary school age at the time of the offences—came forward to report what had happened.

Judge David Hale sentenced Pell to eight years in prison and stated there was “no real excuse” for the abuse endured by the victims. He commented that Pell, who was a teenager when the last offence occurred, was found guilty despite claiming all allegations were fabricated.

Judge Hale acknowledged Pell’s “grossly immature” and “deeply unhappy” state during the offences but emphasized that his crimes were inexcusable. Pell was convicted on August 6.

After the court hearing, Detective Constable Brendan Crilley, who led the investigation, described Pell’s actions as “extremely selfish and callous,” motivated solely by his own sexual gratification, and noted that Pell showed no remorse.

He praised the victims’ bravery, saying, “This case was extremely difficult for the victims and the extended family of all involved, and I applaud the courage of the witnesses who came forward and spoke out about the abuse they suffered, reliving the torment of such terrible memories.”

DC Crilley expressed hope that Pell’s conviction and the courage of his victims would encourage other victims of abuse to come forward. He stated, “Their courage should serve as an example to anyone who has suffered such abuse that they don't need to suffer in silence, that services are available to help and deal with the personal stresses and emotions in such cases, and the knowledge that Cheshire police will listen and act appropriately and with compassion.”