Ex-counsellor jailed for non-recent sex offences
A rapist who preyed on vulnerable young boys in the 1990’s has been jailed for 22 years.
The abuse took place throughout the 1990’s in Swindon when the victims were aged between 14 and 15 years of ages.
Timothy Darch, 62, met one of his victims through his work as a youth counsellor. He gained the victims’ trust by providing them money and a place to live before then going on to abuse them.
He was reported when one of his victim’s became aware that Darch had been convicted for possession of indecent images.
Despite Darch strenuously denying any knowledge of the first victim, images were provided showing the victim in Darch’s home. Prosecutors used these, in conjunction with witness testimonies, diary extracts and a police referral from the time, to unravel Darch’s lies.
Darch was sentenced today (28 March 2024) at Swindon Crown Court having been convicted of multiple counts of rape and indecent assault.
Alun Morgan, a District Crown Prosecutor with CPS Wessex said: “Timothy Darch preyed on young boys who he knew were vulnerable – latching onto these vulnerabilities for his own sexual gratification.
“The victims’ testimonies were crucial in the prosecution’s case, and I want to commend them for their courage in reliving this ordeal so many years later.
“We hope that this case sends a clear message – it is never too late to achieve justice.”
As well as his custodial sentence, Darch received a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Notes to editors
- Timothy Herbert Darch (DOB: 02/02/1962) was convicted after trial of four counts of rape and four counts of indecent assault of a male. He was sentenced to a total of 22 years’ imprisonment.
- Alun Morgan is a District Crown Prosecutor within the RASSO unit at CPS Wessex.
- Victims can report sexual offences to their local police on 101 or call 999 if they are in immediate danger. For confidential support, victims can speak to Rape Crisis and Victim Support.