HERBERT PETERS FROM REDRUTH SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE IN WEST CORNWALL

A man residing in Redruth, Herbert Peters, has been handed a significant prison sentence of 15 years, accompanied by an additional year on extended licence, after being convicted of serious child sex abuse offences that date back to the 1970s. The case, which has garnered considerable attention, stems from allegations that Peters committed two counts of buggery and two counts of indecent assault against young children during that decade.

The investigation into these allegations was initiated in 2021, following the courageous decision of one of the victims to come forward and report the abuse. This victim’s bravery played a crucial role in bringing the case to light and ultimately led to the police opening a formal inquiry. Throughout the investigation, Peters maintained his innocence during an initial interview but later changed his stance, pleading guilty to all charges on the first day of his trial, which took place in January 2025.

One of the victims, whose identity remains protected, described the profound and enduring impact of the abuse. They expressed that the trauma has been like walking with stones in their shoes for nearly five decades. The victim stated, “The best way to describe the last 47 years is that it feels like I have been walking every day with stones in my shoes. Every day I feel them, and every day it hurts.” They added that some days are worse than others, and they live in constant anticipation of when the pain might become unbearable again. The victim also shared a heartfelt hope, saying, “I have always been praying for one day when someone will help me to take them out,” highlighting the long-lasting emotional scars left by the abuse.

Herbert Peters appeared before Truro Crown Court on February 28 for sentencing, where HHJ Judge Carr delivered the verdict. Prior to sentencing, Peters was held in custody. The investigation was led by Detective Constable Isabelle Woodall, who praised the resilience of the victim. She remarked, “It is a testament to the fortitude and strength of character of the victim, who reported these crimes to the police, provided the evidence in this case, and remained supportive of the investigation throughout, that Peters has finally been brought to justice.”

Detective Woodall also condemned Peters’ lack of remorse, stating, “Peters has shown no compassion to the victims of his horrific abuse at any stage. By choosing to plead guilty at the eleventh hour rather than when first interviewed by police in January 2022, he has prolonged their ordeal unnecessarily by a further three years.” She concluded with a note of hope, saying, “Whilst nothing can take away the lasting effects of the abuse that they suffered, I sincerely hope that they may now be able to move forward with the rest of their lives.”