DERRICK SHEPPARD'S HORRIFIC CRIMES IN EXETER AND UPTON PYNE: CHILD RAPIST SENTENCED TO LIFE BEHIND BARS

In a case that has shocked the communities of Exeter and Upton Pyne, Derrick Sheppard, a man with a long history of heinous crimes against children, has been sentenced to an extended prison term following a series of brutal sexual offenses spanning over three decades.

Initially, Sheppard, 73 years old and residing in Glebe Close, Upton Pyne, near Exeter, was handed a 12-year sentence by Judge John Neligan at Exeter Crown Court. The judge described Sheppard’s actions as depraved and noted the extensive duration of his offending, which covered more than 30 years and involved victims aged between six and 18. The crimes took place at various locations across Devon, with the earliest incidents dating back to the 1960s.

Sheppard’s pattern of predatory behavior was particularly disturbing. He would ingratiate himself with the families of his victims, often befriending them to gain access to their children. Once trust was established, he subjected these young girls to horrific abuse. The trauma inflicted on his victims has left deep scars; some continue to be haunted by memories of his bad breath, body odour, and the feel of his unshaven chin as he forced them into unwanted kisses. The psychological damage has persisted for decades, with some victims now in their 40s, still suffering from the effects of his cruelty.

Throughout his criminal history, Sheppard demonstrated a disturbing ability to adapt to changing times. His methods evolved from offering sweets to lure children to purchasing credit for their mobile phones, ensuring ongoing contact and control. His initial interest in young girls reportedly began in the 1960s when he would loiter outside Sunday School premises, hoping to meet and exploit vulnerable children.

During the trial, the court heard harrowing accounts from victims. One woman, now in her 40s, broke down in tears as a judge read parts of her victim impact statement, revealing how the abuse had led to lifelong mental health issues and even destroyed her marriage. Two other witnesses sat quietly at the back of the courtroom, observing Sheppard’s reaction as Judge Neligan described his crimes as depraved and sadistic.

Sheppard was convicted of multiple offenses, including three counts of rape, two attempted rapes, and twelve charges of indecent assault or indecency with a child. The offenses spanned from 1970 to 2006, occurring at various addresses across Devon. Despite his age and current infirmity—he is now confined to a wheelchair—Sheppard maintained his innocence, claiming he had no idea why four women, who did not know each other, would fabricate such stories.

Following his conviction, the judge initially sentenced Sheppard to 12 years in prison. However, after an appeal, three judges from the Court of Appeal increased his sentence to 16 years, a move that legal experts suggest effectively ensures he will likely spend the rest of his life behind bars. The judges’ decision underscores the severity and depravity of his crimes, emphasizing that such offenses warrant the harshest penalties.

In a poignant moment during the sentencing, the court was told that some of Sheppard’s victims continue to suffer from flashbacks and emotional trauma caused by his abuse. The case has left a lasting scar on the communities of Exeter and Upton Pyne, highlighting the importance of vigilance and justice in protecting vulnerable children from predators like Derrick Sheppard.