RICHARD WELLS OF SOUTHAM JAILED FOR 15 YEARS FOR CHILD SEXUAL OFFENCES

In August 2012, Richard Wells, a convicted child rapist from Southam, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for offences committed against a young girl. Wells, of Barkus Close, Southam, was only apprehended after his victim, now in her 30s, mustered the courage to report the abuse. The victim, who was six years old at the time, eventually came forward following two years of counselling that helped her find the strength to contact police.

Wells faced multiple charges, including rape and indecent assault of a female under 16. Despite pleading not guilty and forcing his young victim to testify at Birmingham Crown Court, Wells, aged 66, was found guilty by a jury. Judge Paul Farrer handed down the 15-year sentence on the day of sentencing.

Detective Constable Susan Timmins commented on the case, stating, “These offences occurred some 30 years ago and once again Warwickshire Police would like to acknowledge the courage it took for this woman to come forward to report the abuse and take this opportunity to encourage others to talk to us if they have been sexually assaulted, even if only to seek advice in the first instance.”

She added, “This is one of several cases over the last three or four years where offenders who have committed offences many years ago are now serving significant custodial prison sentences. It is also hoped that this sends out a message to those who choose to commit this type of offence that no matter how long ago it happened, any complaint will be fully investigated.”