DEREK PASCOE FROM CAMBORNE ACQUITTED OF SEXUAL OFFENCES INVOLVING YOUNG BOY AND ADULT IN TRURO

In a case that drew significant attention in Camborne and the surrounding areas, Derek Pascoe, a resident of Redbrook Road in Camborne, faced a series of serious allegations related to sexual misconduct spanning over a decade. The charges included five counts of indecency with a male, two counts of indecency with a child, and one count of rape involving a young boy, with the incidents purportedly occurring between 1996 and 2012. Additionally, Pascoe was accused of two separate sexual assault charges involving two other men.

These allegations led to a high-profile trial at Truro Crown Court, where the jury was presented with a detailed account of Pascoe’s criminal history. It was revealed that he had accumulated 34 convictions dating back to 1973, many of which involved gross indecency with a child. One particularly notorious conviction from 1985 involved Pascoe being found guilty of masturbating in front of two young boys, a crime that underscored his long history of sexual offenses.

During the trial, Pascoe, aged 57 at the time, took the stand to give his testimony. He candidly admitted to having a problem that he described as a 'weird kick' from masturbating in front of others. His defense lawyer, Sean Brunton, questioned him about his criminal record, specifically whether all his past offenses related to similar conduct. Pascoe confirmed that they did, acknowledging a pattern of sexual misconduct.

He also spoke about the efforts he had made to address his issues, stating that he had completed various courses designed for sexual offenders. These programs, he claimed, provided him with strategies to manage his attractions. Pascoe explained that if he found himself attracted to a young person while out in public, he would typically avoid contact by staying in his car or driving home to prevent any inappropriate behavior.

When questioned about his feelings towards his past actions, Pascoe expressed shame and remorse. He admitted that he sometimes believed his actions did not cause harm, but the subsequent guilt was overwhelming and difficult to live with. Despite these admissions, he firmly denied committing any of the specific offenses he was currently accused of. Pascoe insisted that if he had committed such acts, he would have taken responsibility and reported himself to the police.

He maintained that he had never touched the young boy involved in the allegations and described the accusations as deeply damaging and false. Overcome with emotion, Pascoe broke down in tears, asserting, “I would never live with myself if I had raped him.”

Following careful consideration, the jury deliberated and ultimately reached a unanimous verdict of not guilty on all counts. The decision brought relief to Pascoe and marked the end of a lengthy and emotionally taxing legal process. The case remains a stark reminder of the complexities involved in criminal trials, especially those involving serious allegations of sexual misconduct.