Buckland Paedophile Anthony Plummer Jailed for 30 Years
A vile paedophile who terrorised young girls in Buckland for over 30 years has finally been locked up for good. Anthony Plummer, 71, was handed a 30-year prison sentence at Portsmouth Crown Court on Friday for brutally abusing four girls between 1978 and 2009.
Decades of Abuse Exposed in Court
Plummer, a remorseless predator, was found guilty of grotesque crimes including rape, attempted rape, and indecent assault of girls aged between nine and 17. His chilling reign of terror spanned two distinct periods: 1978-1984 and 2006-2008.
The sick offences shattered his victims, leaving lasting scars. Tragically, one victim died before seeing justice done.
Victims Speak Out in Emotional Statements
In court, Plummer sat with folded arms, often shaking his head as victims bravely recounted their harrowing experiences. One tearful survivor declared, “You had no right to take my innocence. Your actions affected my whole life. As a child, I spent years blaming myself for not stopping you.”
She added, “Later, I understood you took advantage of a child.” Another victim revealed the torment she’s endured: “I thought there was something wrong with me, so I didn’t say anything. I still have nightmares. It completely ruined my life.”
Judge Brands Plummer a ‘Dangerous’ Predator
Judge David Melville QC described Plummer as a “remorseless sexual predator” who had “normalised” his appalling crimes. “There is no doubt you are a dangerous person and a risk of serious harm to any young girl,” he warned.
The 30-year sentence includes a two-year extended term to reflect the severity and duration of Plummer’s criminal behaviour.
Summary of Offences
- 13 offences in total
- 3 counts of indecent assault
- Attempted rape and rape
- Rape of a child under 13
- Sexual assault
- 4 counts of assault by penetration of a child under 13
- 2 counts of causing/inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity
Prosecutor Praises Victims’ Bravery
Tracy Harris, senior Crown prosecutor for CPS Wessex, said, “Plummer manipulated the victims into silence through fear. Tragically, one victim died before justice could be served, but we used her evidence with a special legal provision to ensure he faced justice for all his crimes.”
She added, “I pay tribute to the victims for their bravery and strength in supporting the prosecution. I hope this sentence brings them some comfort.”
