British police announced the arrest of an 80-year-old man at an airport after evading authorities for 27 years, as reported on Tuesday.
Richard Burrows, accused of historical child sexual abuse, was apprehended at Heathrow upon returning to the UK from Thailand, stated a spokesperson for Cheshire Police.
According to the police force, Burrows had been sought since December 1997 when he failed to appear at Chester Crown Court for trial on charges of two counts of buggery and 11 counts of indecent assault.
These allegations stem from reported incidents between 1969 and 1971, said to have occurred at a children’s home in Congleton, Cheshire, and in the West Midlands.
Detective Eleanor Atkinson of Cheshire Police remarked, “Our determination to locate Burrows has not faltered over the past 27 years and his arrest marks a significant step forward in this case and the beginning of closure for all those involved.
“I would like to thank the public for the information that they have provided over the years during our search for Burrows and I hope that his arrest provides some reassurance.
“I also hope that his arrest acts as a warning to any other wanted suspects – demonstrating that no matter how long you hide, we will find you and you will be arrested.”
She expressed gratitude to the public for their assistance in the prolonged search for Burrows and hopes that his apprehension provides some sense of relief.
