JEREMY FREETHY FROM PENZANCE SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN TRURO

In a case that has shocked the local community, Jeremy Freethy, a fisherman from Penzance, was sentenced to nearly a decade behind bars at Truro Crown Court for the serious sexual abuse of two young boys. The court heard that Freethy, aged 45 and residing at Orchard Court in Penzance, had previously pleaded guilty to a total of 29 separate offences related to these crimes.

The abuse inflicted upon the two boys was both prolonged and calculated. One of the victims was subjected to Freethy's misconduct over a period of four years, while the other was abused for approximately six months. The court was informed that Freethy’s actions were not impulsive but carefully planned, with the offences described as predatory in nature. The court proceedings revealed that Freethy had groomed the boys, exploiting their trust and vulnerability, and had also provided them with money in an attempt to silence them about the abuse.

Judge Christopher Elwen addressed the court, emphasizing the severity and malicious intent behind Freethy’s actions. He stated, “These offences were planned, predatory and perpetrated over a period. The boys were groomed, taken advantage of and given money to keep quiet.” The judge also remarked on the stark contrast between Freethy’s previous reputation and his current downfall, noting, “You were a man of positive good character, but your fall from grace is startling.”

During the sentencing, a personal impact statement from one of the victims was read out, revealing the profound and lasting damage caused by Freethy’s actions. The victim described how the abuse had shattered his life, leading him down a dark path involving drugs, alcohol, and criminal activity. He expressed that he felt prison was the only escape from the pain inflicted upon him.

Prosecutor Ramsay Quaife highlighted the devastating effects on the victims, emphasizing the long-term trauma inflicted by Freethy’s misconduct. In his defense, John Boyle acknowledged that Freethy had admitted guilt from the outset, although he maintained that Freethy had not supplied the boys with alcohol or cannabis, which the court had also considered.

Ultimately, Judge Elwen sentenced Freethy to nine and a half years in prison. Additionally, he imposed a lifelong ban on Freethy working with children and ordered him to register as a sex offender, ensuring he remains under supervision and scrutiny for the foreseeable future.