Steam railway enthusiast groomed and abused young girls at steam rally.

Steam Engine Enthusiast Sentenced for Sexually Abusing Two Sisters

A steam engine enthusiast, Brian Rowe, 54, was sentenced at Truro Crown Court for sexually abusing two sisters at a rally in 2019.

Rowe, of Ruthernbridge near Bodmin, had previously been issued a sexual risk order in December 2015 due to concerns about his behavior, despite insufficient evidence for criminal prosecution. This order prohibited him from having contact with children under 16 without the knowledge of their parents.

At the rally, Rowe spent time with the family, who were unaware of the order. He kissed one of the girls on the lips and later, while alone with her, put his tongue in her mouth and touched her private parts. His actions were stopped when the sister intervened.

Rowe also touched the other sister's breast and around her vagina. The offences came to light after the sisters wrote a note detailing their experiences.

In court, Rowe's defense attorney stated that he was deeply ashamed and sought help to change his behavior. The judge acknowledged the seriousness of the offences but opted for a three-year community order, including a sexual harm prevention order and a rehabilitation treatment program.

Judge Robert Linford stated that a prison sentence would not be conducive to Rowe's rehabilitation and that the community would be best served with his participation in treatment.

Rowe was warned that any breach of the community order would result in a 27-month prison sentence.