PETER GRANT BOVINGDON PRIEST SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF BOY IN HERTFORDSHIRE

In June 2007, a tragic case of sexual misconduct involving a Catholic priest from Bovingdon, Hertfordshire, came to light, culminating in a court sentencing that highlighted the severity of the betrayal involved. Father Peter Grant, aged 58 and residing at Balfour Mews in Bovingdon, was found guilty of engaging in sexual activities with a minor, a boy who had initially approached him seeking guidance about his confusing feelings regarding his sexuality.

The court heard that Grant pleaded guilty to four separate charges of sexual activity with a child, acknowledging his misconduct. The allegations surfaced after the teenage victim confided in another priest during a confession, revealing the inappropriate relationship. Following this disclosure, the priest advised the boy to report the matter to the police, which eventually led to Grant’s arrest.

During the proceedings at St Albans Crown Court, it was revealed that Grant’s actions had a profound impact on the young victim. The court was also informed that after the allegations became known, Grant attempted to take his own life by consuming a large amount of whisky and tablets, an act of desperation that underscored his remorse and the gravity of his actions.

Prosecutor Sally Mealing-McLeod detailed that Grant had sexually abused the boy on four occasions over a span of three months, from January to March of that year. The abuse began when Grant stayed overnight at the boy’s home, during which the young boy sought out Grant in his room to discuss his internal struggles with his sexuality. It was during this visit that Grant, who was in bed at the time, pulled the boy close, kissed him, and engaged in sexual acts, breaching the trust placed in him as a spiritual guide.

The court also learned that Grant’s misconduct extended beyond the boy’s home. On another occasion, he committed similar acts at the Sacred Heart Church in Berkhamsted, where he had served as a priest for ten years. This revelation added to the sense of betrayal, as the church community and the wider public grappled with the breach of moral and spiritual duties.

Defence lawyer Joy Dykers acknowledged Grant’s guilty plea and highlighted his previous good character, as well as his genuine remorse for the actions. She also pointed out that Grant had been suspended from his duties by the church on 19 April following the allegations.

Judge Michael Baker QC sentenced Grant to a total of 40 months in prison. In his remarks, the judge emphasized the gravity of the offense, stating, “Apart from the age gap, what makes this especially bad is that the boy came to you as a Catholic Priest seeking sexual advice and guidance. Your acts were a gross breach of trust.”

Following the sentencing, a spokesperson for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Westminster, Eddie Tulasiewicz, issued a statement condemning Grant’s actions, describing them as “a grievous betrayal of his responsibilities as a priest,” and reaffirming the church’s stance against such misconduct and the importance of safeguarding the community’s trust.