DEREK HOOPER OF BOVEY TRACEY SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS FOR SEX OFFENCES AT FORDE PARK SCHOOL IN NEWTON ABBOT
| Red Rose Database
Bovey Tracey N/A Child Sexual Abuser
In a case that has shocked the community of Bovey Tracey and the surrounding areas, Derek Hooper, a 74-year-old man, has been sentenced to serve 18 years in prison after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offences committed against young boys. The crimes took place at the now-defunct Forde Park School located in Newton Abbot, during the 1960s and 1970s, a period when Hooper was employed there in various roles including care assistant, general helper, and gardener.
Hooper’s background included a lengthy service as a Special Constable, a position he held for 17 years. Despite his role in law enforcement, he was found guilty at Truro Crown Court of committing a total of 40 separate offences related to sexual misconduct. The allegations against him detailed a pattern of predatory behavior targeting vulnerable boys during his time at the school.
According to court reports, the victims recounted how Hooper would often tell the boys that they would become his “special boys,” creating an unsettling sense of trust and familiarity. It was further claimed that he would secretly hide with the children during outings and activities, only to assault them in private. The victims also described how Hooper would molest them at a bungalow he owned, or even encourage them to engage in sexual activities with each other, further demonstrating a disturbing pattern of exploitation.
Judge Graham Cottle delivered a stern judgment, stating that Hooper “richly deserved” the severe sentence given the gravity of his crimes. The case has left a lasting impact on the community, highlighting the dangers of abuse hidden behind seemingly respectable facades. The sentencing underscores the importance of justice for victims of such heinous acts, and serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in safeguarding vulnerable children from predators.
Hooper’s background included a lengthy service as a Special Constable, a position he held for 17 years. Despite his role in law enforcement, he was found guilty at Truro Crown Court of committing a total of 40 separate offences related to sexual misconduct. The allegations against him detailed a pattern of predatory behavior targeting vulnerable boys during his time at the school.
According to court reports, the victims recounted how Hooper would often tell the boys that they would become his “special boys,” creating an unsettling sense of trust and familiarity. It was further claimed that he would secretly hide with the children during outings and activities, only to assault them in private. The victims also described how Hooper would molest them at a bungalow he owned, or even encourage them to engage in sexual activities with each other, further demonstrating a disturbing pattern of exploitation.
Judge Graham Cottle delivered a stern judgment, stating that Hooper “richly deserved” the severe sentence given the gravity of his crimes. The case has left a lasting impact on the community, highlighting the dangers of abuse hidden behind seemingly respectable facades. The sentencing underscores the importance of justice for victims of such heinous acts, and serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in safeguarding vulnerable children from predators.