A “dangerous sexual predator” has been sentenced to 26 years in prison after committing horrifying crimes against women and children over three decades in Devon.
Christopher Welch, 66, from Wrafton in Braunton, was found guilty at Exeter Crown Court of multiple offences including rape, assault by penetration, and indecent assault on women, as well as sexual offences against children.
The court heard that Welch’s attacks targeted three children and two women throughout the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, all within the county of Devon.
On Thursday, 2 April, Welch was sentenced to 26 years behind bars, with an additional three years on licence. He has also been placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
Police praised the bravery of the victims who came forward, with powerful personal statements read out during the court proceedings. One victim described the abuse’s impact as “irreversible” and spoke of living “every day in the life not lived.”
Detective Constable Kerry Mitchell described Welch as “a vile human being” and welcomed the tough sentence, saying it should provide reassurance to both victims and the public.
She also encouraged anyone affected by sexual abuse, whether past or present, to contact the police. Specialist units are available to offer support and take action.
Support organisations such as Victim Support and the National Rape Crisis Helpline are also available to those in need.
Originally published by UKNIP.
