JAMES WHITTAKER FROM BISHOPSTEIGNTON SENTENCED FOR SYSTEMATIC CHILD ABUSE NEAR TEIGNMOUTH

In a case that has shocked the local community of Bishopsteignton near Teignmouth, Devon, James Whittaker, aged 71, has been sentenced to eight years in prison for a series of serious and systematic sexual offenses committed against children over a span of more than three decades.

Whittaker, who resides at Stone Lodge in Bishopsteignton, pleaded guilty to a total of 13 counts of sexual misconduct involving minors. The charges included an attempted rape of a child under the age of 16, along with six counts of indecent assault on children. These offenses, which spanned over 32 years, reveal a disturbing pattern of abuse that has deeply affected the victims and the community at large.

The court proceedings last Friday revealed the disturbing details of Whittaker’s actions. The judge, Paul Darlow, was informed that Whittaker had been actively involved in the local community through various voluntary associations, and was considered a man of previously good character. Despite this, the gravity of his crimes was undeniable.

During the hearing, Judge Darlow acknowledged the seriousness of the offenses, stating, “The 13 counts on the indictment represent the systematic abuse of children over a period of 32 years.” He also noted that the sentence could have been as long as 12 years had Whittaker not admitted to his crimes, which likely influenced the court’s decision to impose an eight-year term.

The case has left many residents of Bishopsteignton and the surrounding areas in shock, as they grapple with the betrayal of trust by someone they believed to be a respected member of their community. The court’s decision underscores the severity of the crimes committed and the importance of holding offenders accountable, regardless of their social standing or previous reputation.