A man has been sentenced to 22 years behind bars for a series of non-recent serious sexual assaults. Timothy Darch, residing on Southrop Road, Kingsway, Quedgeley, appeared at Swindon Crown Court on Thursday.
The court found him guilty of four counts of indecent assault on a boy under 16 and four counts of rape on another boy under the same age, with these abhorrent acts unfolding between 1996 and 1997.
During the trial, harrowing testimonies from the victims painted a vivid picture of manipulation and abuse. One victim, now an adult, lamented, “I wish I had the strength to come forward sooner,” highlighting the enduring trauma inflicted by Darch’s actions. Another spoke of being drawn into a surreal world of escapism, where substance abuse became a coping mechanism against the haunting memories of abuse.
Detective Constable Ross Duff, of Swindon CID, commended the bravery of the victims in confronting their tormentor and providing crucial evidence. He said, “Darch put himself in a position of trust and exploited vulnerable children,” underscoring the predatory nature of his actions.
Duff’s sentiments echo a broader message of solidarity with survivors of sexual assault. “We take these allegations very seriously,” he affirmed, “and this behaviour will not be tolerated.”
Anyone who has been the victim of sexual assault should report this to us by calling 101 or visiting our website. Always dial 999 if a crime is in progress
