PETER ROGERSON SENTENCED IN TAMPERE FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES
Police apprehended offender Peter Rogerson after he confessed his crimes to a priest.Rogerson, a 58-year-old man, wrote a partial confession in a note given to Father Michael White at Sacred Heart Church in Tamworth, Staffordshire, which led to police involvement.
Last year, a jury convicted Rogerson of 24 serious sexual offences involving three victims, including 10 counts of rape.
He has now been sentenced to a 34-year extended prison term, with at least 18 years to be served before he can be considered for parole.
Rogerson chose not to attend his sentencing at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court.
Prosecutor Ben Douglas-Jones KC described the case as involving a "truly sickening campaign of rapes and other very serious sexual offences." During the court proceedings, victims delivered heartfelt statements about the profound impact of the abuse.
One victim stated, "I will never forget how much damage he caused," while another expressed feelings of failure.
In mitigation, Carl Templar-Vasey noted that Rogerson, of Halford Crescent in Tamworth, has admitted to five of the offences.
Judge Sally Hancox sentenced Rogerson to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and ordered him to be registered as a sex offender for life.
He is required to serve two-thirds of his 28-year sentence before being eligible for parole.
Judge Hancox described Rogerson's offending as "dreadful" and confirmed that he qualifies as a dangerous offender.
She also praised Detective Constable Alex Goldman, the lead officer on the case, for her diligent work and announced she will be recommended for a High Sheriff's Award.
