A former Plymouth criminal defence solicitor has been found guilty of raping and sexually assaulting clients he had been appointed to help.
Alan Harris, 72, was today convicted of 10 offences against seven victims – six male and one female - following a five-week trial at Winchester Crown Court.
Harris committed the offences between 1988 and 2015 with the majority happening during private legal consultations at Plymouth Magistrates’ Court and Charles Cross police station.
Harris, of Thorn Park, Plymouth, denied the charges but was found guilty today, 10 December, of five counts of indecent assault and five sexual assaults.
He will be sentenced at Winchester Crown Court on 25 and 26 February 2026.
Senior Investigating Officer Chief Superintendent Roy Linden said:
“We welcome the jury’s guilty verdicts at Winchester Crown Court today.
“Alan Harris has been convicted of despicable sexual offences against victims he targeted because of their vulnerability, thinking nobody would ever believe them.
“The victims in this case have shown enormous courage in reporting these offences, placing trust in the criminal justice process and in giving evidence in court. Our thoughts are with them today.
“Speaking directly to victims of sexual offences: We would encourage anyone who has been in this situation to come forward, and we will review each case on its own merits to determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed.”
If you have any information in relation to this investigation, please contact the police via their website or by calling 101 quoting log 369 of 5/11/25.
If you don't want to talk to them, or if you want extra support, there are lots of people who can help. You're in control, and it's up to you who you talk to and what help you receive.
Support is available if you need help or assistance relating to sexual assault:
- National Rape Crisis Helpline: 0808 802 9999
- Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC): 0300 3034626
- Devon, Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Independent Sexual Advisor Service: 03458 121212
- Victim Care Unit: 01392 475900
- Devon Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Services: 01392 204 174
- In an emergency, always call 999 and in a non-emergency please visit www.dc.police.uk or telephone 101.
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