Buckland Paedophile Anthony Plummer Jailed for 30 Years
A vile paedophile from Buckland who terrorised young girls 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.
Decades of Abuse Uncovered
Plummer preyed on four girls aged between nine and 17 from 1978 to 2009. His depraved crimes included rape, attempted rape, indecent assault, and sexual assault. The attacks occurred in two periods: 1978-1984 and 2006-2008.
He was convicted of 13 offences, including:
- Three counts of indecent assault
- One count of attempted rape
- One count of rape
- Rape of a child under 13
- Sexual assault
- Four counts of assault of a child under 13 by penetration
- Two counts of causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity
Victims Speak Out, Justice Served
One victim, fighting tears, told the court, “You had no right to take my innocence. Your actions affected my whole life. As a child I spent many years blaming myself for not stopping you.”
Another said, “I wondered why it happened. The enormity of it hit me and broke me. I thought there was something wrong with me so I didn’t say anything. I still have nightmares and think about what you did. It completely ruined my life.”
Sadly, one victim died before seeing justice done. But thanks to a special legal provision, her evidence was still used at trial.
Judge Condemns ‘Remorseless Predator’
Judge David Melville QC called Plummer a dangerous and remorseless sexual predator who “normalised” his horrific crimes.
“There is a risk of you misbehaving with any young girl – you are a risk of serious harm. There is no doubting you are a dangerous person,” the judge declared.
“This sentence reflects the criminal behaviour you have been convicted of over many years.”
Prosecutor Praises Victims’ Courage
Tracy Harris, CPS Wessex senior Crown prosecutor, said: “Plummer manipulated the victims, ensuring they were too scared to tell anyone at the time. I pay tribute to the victims for their bravery and strength in supporting this prosecution. I hope the sentence brings them a small sense of comfort.”
