A former choirmaster who 50 years ago sexually abused 14 boys at churches across the North West has finally been jailed. Richard Owen, also known as Franklyn Stanowski, met the children after they joined the choir at churches in Winsford, Knutsford and Altrincham.

In private rooms, and out of sight of adults, he told them to remove their trousers to be struck on the buttocks for his own sexual gratification, Cheshire Constabulary has said. The offences happened between 1968 and 1998 when the boys were aged under 16.

The 70-year-old, from Winsford, admitted to 27 offences involving indecent assault of underage boys and was today jailed for 12 years at Chester Crown Court.

Cheshire Constabulary’s investigation into Owen’s crimes began following a ‘past cases review’ into allegations of sexual abuse, which was commissioned by the Church of England. Owen was arrested on 25 March 2020 and subsequently charged in January 2022.

On sentencing Judge Leeming still considered Owen a dangerous offender and a risk to young boys. Detective Inspector Dave Hutcheon, of Cheshire Constabulary’s major investigation teams, said: “Owen preyed on young and innocent children betraying their trust for his own sexual gratification while also becoming infatuated and obsessed with them.

If you would like to discuss your experiences further – please contact Charles Derham on 02393552153 or by email on charles@remedylaw.co.uk to discuss the viability of a civil claim for compensation