An 80-year-old man, Richard Burrows, wanted by police for nearly three decades over alleged sexual abuse of children, was arrested at Heathrow Airport upon his return from Thailand last Thursday.
Burrows faces charges dating back to 1969-1971, including two counts of buggery and 11 counts of indecent assault at a children’s home in Congleton, Cheshire, and in the West Midlands.
Once a scoutmaster, Burrows had been on the run since December 1997 when he failed to attend trial at Chester Crown Court.
The digitally age-progressed picture of Burrows as he may have looked aged 65 (Picture: Cheshire Constabulary)
Despite eluding authorities for so long, Burrows is set to appear at the same court later today to face the long-standing charges against him.
His inclusion among the most wanted individuals in the UK by charity Crimestoppers heightened the urgency of his capture, reflecting the gravity of the allegations against him.
Detective Inspector Eleanor Atkinson of Cheshire Police expressed gratitude for the public’s assistance throughout the exhaustive 27-year pursuit of Burrows, emphasizing the community’s role in aiding law enforcement efforts.
This arrest marks a significant milestone in the case and begins the process of closure for all those affected by Burrows’ alleged crimes.
Not seen for 11 years, concerns arose that Burrows may have altered his identity, prompting authorities to release his image to the public to aid in his apprehension.
Despite appearing in episodes of the BBC’s Crimewatch in 1999 and 2011, Burrows remained elusive until recent developments led to his arrest at Heathrow Airport.
The collaboration between agencies, including the National Crime Agency’s team based in Thailand, played a crucial role in tracking down Burrows and bringing him to justice.
International Liaison Officer Duncan Barrage highlighted the unwavering commitment of law enforcement to pursue fugitives linked to serious allegations, regardless of how long they evade capture.
Burrows’ arrest sends a clear message to other wanted suspects that law enforcement will relentlessly pursue them, ensuring accountability and justice for their actions.j
