Darren Wheatley

A man from Kidderminster has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for committing multiple child sex offences. Darren Wheatley, aged 55, was found guilty of 20 offences of rape of a child under 13 at Worcester Crown Court.

The sentencing took place on Tuesday, 22 December 2020, following Wheatley's conviction on Friday, 18 December 2020. The case was investigated by Kidderminster CID, part of West Mercia Police, who uncovered the disturbing series of abuses perpetrated by Wheatley against young victims.

Detective Sergeant Iain Standing, who led the investigation, described the case as 'especially disturbing' and commended the bravery of the victims. In a statement, he said: 'This was an especially disturbing case and I’m pleased this man will now face a considerable amount of time in prison for his vile actions. It has taken great courage and bravery for his victims to come forward and face the personal challenges of a trial.' The investigation highlighted the challenges faced by victims in reporting such crimes, with DS Standing adding that the conviction should reassure others that they will be supported and justice pursued.

Wheatley, residing on Lion Street in Kidderminster, Worcestershire, was charged with the serious offences that spanned multiple incidents involving children under the age of 13. The court proceedings at Worcester Crown Court underscored the severity of the crimes, resulting in the lengthy custodial sentence and lifetime placement on the Sex Offenders Register. This outcome reflects West Mercia Police's commitment to tackling child sexual exploitation, as evidenced by their thorough investigation and successful prosecution.