Brian Ramsey

A 'monster' child rapist who abused two young girls in west Cornwall decades ago has been jailed for 19 years. Brian Ramsey, now 71 and of Duncan Gardens, Grimsby, was convicted after a trial at Truro Crown Court in April of 12 counts of rape, indecent assault on a child, and gross indecency with a child. The historic offences took place when Ramsey worked as a fisherman and his victims were children.

During the sentencing hearing on 29 May 2026, the court heard powerful victim impact statements describing the enduring trauma caused by Ramsey's actions. One victim revealed that the abuse had driven her to attempt suicide, saying: 'I don't know if I would still be here had it not been for the unconditional support and love of my husband.' She spoke of living with flashbacks, recurrent nightmares, panic attacks, and anxiety.

The second victim described an ongoing 'sickening nightmare' and told the court: 'The effect did not stop when the abuse stopped. It has continued into adulthood. Having to relive it in a court room and seeing them denied had a severe impact on my mental health. It's left lasting emotional and physical scars which I continue to live with every day.' She added that reporting the abuse and testifying at trial was the hardest thing she has ever done, but 'I decided not to be silent anymore.'

In mitigation, the court heard that Ramsey suffered from chronic health conditions, including the need for an operation to remove scar tissue on his lungs, and that he had mental health difficulties and had attempted suicide. His barrister emphasised that he had been of good character prior to the offences and had not offended for more than two decades.

Recorder Christopher Quinlan KC noted the 'profound and enduring' effect of the abuse on the victims, who had unfairly felt shame and guilt. He described Ramsey as a danger to society and stated that only a custodial sentence was justified. Ramsey was sentenced to a total of 19 years in prison, of which he will serve 12 years before being eligible for parole. He was also placed on the sex offenders' register for life.