FRANCIS MCDERMOTT SHOCKS BIDEFORD AND HIGH WYCOMBE WITH CHILD SEX OFFENCES

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Bideford and High Wycombe, Francis McDermott, a man previously associated with religious institutions, has been convicted of a series of serious child sex offences. The investigation, carried out by Thames Valley Police, uncovered a disturbing pattern of abuse spanning several years, involving multiple victims and taking place in different locations where McDermott was known to have worked.

On February 19, at Aylesbury Crown Court, McDermott, aged 74 and residing on Atlantic Way in Westward Ho!, Bideford, Devon, was found guilty by a jury of 18 counts related to non-recent sexual offences. The court's verdict came after a thorough trial that revealed the extent of his alleged misconduct. The jury unanimously convicted him on 16 of the 18 counts, with the remaining two counts resulting in a majority verdict. The offences involved six victims, with allegations spanning from the early 1970s to the late 1970s.

The charges included five counts of indecent assault on a boy under the age of 14, one count of gross indecency with a child under the age of 14, and one count of indecent assault on a boy under the age of 16. Additionally, McDermott was convicted of five counts of indecent assault on girls under the age of 14 and six counts of indecent assault on girls under the age of 16. These offences were committed during his time working as a priest in High Wycombe and Norwich, locations where he was stationed during the period from 1971 to 1978.

Following the verdict, McDermott was remanded into custody, awaiting sentencing. The court proceedings also revealed that he later served at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Aylesbury, a position he held until he withdrew from active ministry in 2005. Despite the convictions, McDermott was acquitted of eight other counts, which included allegations of rape, additional indecent assaults, gross indecency, and buggery.

The sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 14 at Aylesbury Crown Court, where the court will determine the appropriate punishment for McDermott’s actions. The case has brought to light the disturbing abuse of trust and the long-lasting impact on the victims involved, highlighting the importance of justice and accountability in cases of historical child sexual abuse.