A former youth club leader has been jailed for 16 years after being convicted of a string of historic sex offences against a boy in the 1970s.
Colin Richell, 73 (7.4.41), of Grenoble Gardens, Palmers Green, was sentenced at Wood Green Crown Court for 15 counts of buggery, indecent assault and gross indecency against the victim.
The victim was eight to nine years of age when the abuse began in 1972 at a youth club run by Richell at the Devonshire Hill School in Haringey.
Over the next six years the abuse continued, escalating in severity and taking place at various locations including the suspect’s home address and holiday home. Further offences took place in his car.
The victim originally reported the abuse to an outer London Police Force in 2013. After making initial inquiries, the matter was referred to the Child Abuse Investigation Team at Barnet.
Following a thorough investigation on 13 August 2014, Richell attended Edmonton police station where he was subsequently
We do not have a breakdown of the offences at this time.
He pleaded not guilty on 19 November 2014 at Wood Green Crown Court. At the subsequent trial he was convicted of the sexual abuse and received a custodial sentence of 16 years yesterday 25 March.
Detective Constable Goode, Child Abuse Investigation Team, said: “Richell abused his position of trust and power to carry out systematic and sustained abuse on the victim, manipulating him to believe he had no way out of the situation.
“I commend the victim for his bravery in coming forward and reliving the horror of these offences before a jury.
“It is possible Richell has committed further offences and I would encourage anyone with information to contact my team on 0208 733 5039. To remain anonymous call Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 11