John Trehenban

John Trehenban (also known as John Trefanben or John Trefusis) was a notorious Cornish murderer who lived in the 17th century. He is infamous for his brutal crime and the unique punishment that followed.

Early Life

Little is known about the early life of John Trehenban. He was born in Cornwall, a county in the southwest of England. Details about his family, upbringing, and occupation remain largely undocumented.

The Crime

In 1671, John Trehenban committed a heinous crime that shocked the local community. He murdered two young girls, an act that led to his immediate arrest and trial. The exact motives behind the murders are unclear, but the brutality of the crime left a lasting impression on the people of Cornwall.

Trial and Punishment

John Trehenban was swiftly brought to trial for his crimes. The court found him guilty of murder, and he was sentenced to a particularly harsh and unusual punishment. Trehenban was condemned to be locked in a cage on Roche Rock, a prominent rocky outcrop near the village of Roche. The cage was placed high on the rock, exposed to the elements, where he was left to die of starvation and exposure.

Legacy

The story of John Trehenban has become a part of local folklore in Cornwall. Roche Rock, where he met his grim fate, remains a site of historical interest and is often associated with his legend. The tale of Trehenban's crime and punishment serves as a grim reminder of the harsh justice of the past.

See Also

• Roche Rock
• Cornwall
• 17th century in England