RICHARD PEARCE FROM CARLYON BAY PLYMOUTH FACES JAIL FOR HORRIFIC SEXUAL ABUSE OF SCHOOLGIRLS

In a case that has shocked the local community, Richard Pearce, a 47-year-old man from Carlyon Bay near St Austell, has been convicted of a series of heinous sexual offences involving two schoolgirls. The conviction follows a detailed and harrowing three-day trial at Plymouth Crown Court, where a jury unanimously found Pearce guilty of 19 separate charges related to abuse spanning over five years.

Pearce’s crimes included multiple counts of rape, sexual assault, and other serious sexual offences. The jury heard how he systematically groomed one of his victims, often using alcohol and cannabis as tools to manipulate her into silence. The abuse reportedly took place over a period from 2006 to 2011, during which Pearce exploited the girl’s vulnerability, sometimes repeatedly assaulting her. The court was also presented with evidence of a sexual assault against a second girl in 2008, which Pearce denied.

Throughout the trial, Pearce maintained his innocence, claiming he had not touched either girl. He expressed his devastation at the allegations but was unable to provide a clear explanation for why the victims would fabricate such accusations. His defense argued that some of the incidents occurred while he was residing in Plymouth, but the jury was unconvinced, reaching their verdict swiftly within just two hours.

Following the guilty verdicts, Judge James Townsend ordered Pearce to be remanded in custody while awaiting sentencing. The judge emphasized the gravity of the offences, warning Pearce that he faced a lengthy prison term. He explained that a probation officer would now assess the risk Pearce posed to the public before a final sentence was handed down.

Judge Townsend praised the victims for their bravery in giving evidence, especially considering the distress caused by recounting their experiences. He also commended the police for their handling of the case, acknowledging the difficulties faced during the investigation and trial, which took place amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The victim who was repeatedly assaulted came forward in late 2018, prompting police to reopen the case. Although an initial complaint in 2008 was made, police had dropped the matter after Pearce denied any inappropriate contact. It was only after the more recent disclosures that the prosecution was able to proceed, leading to today’s verdicts.

During her testimony, the young woman broke down several times as she described the years of abuse she endured. Pearce, who has a background working in a garage and has lived in Quethiock near Liskeard as well as Plymouth, has often been unemployed and spent much of his time building kit cars. He was remanded in custody and will face sentencing at a later date, with the court emphasizing the seriousness of his crimes and the impact on his victims.