JAMES BARRATT OF RUGBY JAILED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN WARWICKSHIRE CHURCH SCANDAL

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Rugby, Warwickshire, James Barratt, a 45-year-old man and an elder within the Jehovah’s Witness church, has been sentenced to prison for serious child abuse charges. Barratt, who is married and a father of two, was convicted of indecently assaulting two teenage boys who had been under his guidance for Bible studies and counseling sessions.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Barratt had exploited his position of trust over a prolonged period, systematically abusing the two boys over a span of ten years. The Warwick Crown Court heard that Barratt, a respected figure and trusted friend of the families involved, used his role within the church as a means to gain access to vulnerable youths. His method involved leveraging the intimacy of Bible lessons and counseling sessions to carry out his inappropriate acts.

The trial, which lasted four days, saw Barratt maintain that his intentions were paternal, claiming he aimed to be a positive influence and a father figure to the boys. However, the court found his defense unconvincing, emphasizing the betrayal of trust involved in his actions.

Judge James Pike, presiding over the case, delivered a stern sentence, highlighting the gravity of Barratt’s misconduct. He stated that Barratt had been entrusted with the care of vulnerable young individuals and accused him of being an “arch-hypocrite” for abusing that trust. Barratt was sentenced to two years in prison, with 12 months of that sentence suspended. Additionally, he will be required to register as a sex offender for the next ten years, reflecting the serious nature of his crimes.

Detective Inspector Jim Hill of Warwickshire Police expressed his condemnation of Barratt’s actions, describing him as an “extremely dangerous individual.” Hill pointed out that Barratt’s approach to the victims was facilitated through the victims’ parents, with whom he had established a strong bond. Hill emphasized that Barratt exploited this trust to commit his offenses.

One of the victims, Gordon Grant, now aged 23, shared his disappointment with the response from the church community. Grant advised others who might face similar issues to avoid seeking help from church elders or leaders, urging them instead to contact the police directly. He emphasized that professional law enforcement agencies are better equipped to handle such sensitive cases and protect victims effectively.