MAN WHO CLAIMED TO BE A PSYCHIC JAILED FOR SEXUALLY ASSAULTING WOMEN
A man who claimed to be a psychic has been sentenced to prison for sexually assaulting women under the guise of conducting 'spiritual cleansing' rituals.John Starkey, 74, from Rhodfa'r Grug in Upper Colwyn Bay, received a four-year and five-month prison term at Caernarfon Crown Court on June 12.
Self-described as an 'internationally renowned clairvoyant' with four decades of experience, Starkey admitted to charges of sexual assault by penetration and two counts of sexual assault.
Despite asserting that he had appeared on major television and radio programs, Judge Nicola Jones labelled him a 'complete charlatan' and criticised his breach of trust.
The court heard that Starkey exploited his psychic services to commit his assaults.
Police first investigated him after a woman reported being attacked in Wolverhampton in 2018.
Several months later, he enticed her to a London hotel under false pretenses that other clients would be present.
Once she was alone, he directed her to remove her clothes and assaulted her, claiming it was an 'initiation' for 'spiritual cleansing.' Another victim was assaulted in October 2022 during a holiday in Llandudno.
Prosecutor Elen Owen stated that the young woman, with an interest in clairvoyance, visited Starkey at his shop for a consultation.
During this encounter, Starkey instructed her to undress and then assaulted her sexually.
Following his arrest, Starkey's defense highlighted that he had a history of good character and was suffering from severe health issues, with a life expectancy of three to five years.
Judge Nicola Jones sentenced Starkey to serve four years and five months in prison, with half the term to be served in custody and the remainder on licence.
She also made orders for indefinite notification requirements and issued restraining orders to prevent contact with the victims.
Starkey was ordered to pay a statutory surcharge as part of his sentence.
