GEORGE RAY FROM BROMSGROVE JAILED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN WORCESTER

In a significant development in the fight against child sexual abuse, Geoffrey Ray, a 71-year-old man from Middle Drive, Cofton Hackett, has been sentenced to a total of four years and four months in prison at Worcester Crown Court. Ray, who previously served as the chairman of the Bromsgrove Liberal Democrats, was convicted after admitting to multiple sex offences committed against minors under the age of 16.

The court heard that Ray had pleaded guilty to three separate counts of indecent assault involving young girls aged between nine and 15 years old. These offences took place over a span of nearly a decade, from September 1976 to May 1985, in the Bromsgrove area. The sentences handed down were three consecutive terms: 16 months, one year, and two years, reflecting the gravity of his crimes. Additionally, Ray was ordered to register as a sex offender, a measure designed to monitor his activities and prevent further harm.

Judge Michael Cullum emphasized the breach of trust involved in Ray’s actions, describing the crimes as 'predatory' and highlighting their profound impact on the victims’ lives. The judge pointed out that Ray exploited his position of authority and trust to commit these heinous acts, which left lasting scars on those affected.

The revelation of Ray’s offences came to light in 2011, when he was photographed on the front page of the Standard while participating in a walking group. One of the victims recognized him from the image, which prompted her to contact the police. This initial tip-off set in motion an investigation that eventually uncovered additional victims. When police officers visited Ray at his home, he mentioned the name of a different girl, which led to the identification of two more victims. Detective Constable Nadia Prescott stated that Ray confessed to the offences after being charged but showed no remorse during his interviews, indicating a lack of remorse for his actions.

Det Con Prescott praised the bravery of the victims who came forward, acknowledging that their courage was instrumental in bringing the case to court. She emphasized that Ray’s betrayal of trust was a serious matter, and the court’s sentence reflected the severity of his crimes. Prescott also highlighted that justice can be served even decades after the offences occurred, reinforcing the message that sexual crimes, regardless of when they are reported, can still be prosecuted.

At the time of his conviction, Ray was still believed to be actively involved with the Bromsgrove branch of the Liberal Democrats, having served as chairman as recently as 2010. The party has not issued any public comment regarding the case, and no representatives from the Bromsgrove Liberal Democrats were available for comment when the Standard went to press.