Pensioner guilty of historic child sex offences in Swindon

Michael Barker, 71, of Albert Hill, Durham, has been found guilty of historic sexual offences against children.

He had previously pleaded not guilty to six counts of indecent assault on a girl under the age of 14, two counts of raping a female under 16 years of age and gross indecency with a girl under 14.

But on Monday, October 6 at Swindon Crown Court, a jury found him guilty of all charges.

Many of these offences took place over an 11 year period between 1974 and 1985, in Chippenham and and Bishop Auckland.

Between November 6, 1995 and August 8, 1999, Barker indecently assaulted a teenage girl in Swindon.

Barker sexually assaulted young girls who were known to him and trusted him.

Det Con Nicola Ainsley said: “Firstly, I would like to praise the victims in this case, who have endured incredibly traumatic experiences but despite this, found the courage to report Barker’s behaviour to police.

"This case is another example of why it is so important to get in touch with police if you have been a victim of rape, sexual assault, or any other sexual offence, regardless of how much time has passed.

“The bravery of the victims has enabled us to ensure Barker was put before the courts where they have reached a guilty verdict following a trial.

“Barker is an abhorrent individual – he abused these young girls, often in their own homes where they should have felt most safe, subsequently robbing them of their childhoods. His behaviour escalated over the years and when charged, he continued to deny any wrongdoing, forcing the case to go to trial and causing further distress to his victims.

“I know that, tragically, the impact of abuse of this nature as a young child is carried by the victims for the rest of their lives. Whilst this court result will not take that away entirely, I hope that a guilty verdict will go some way in giving the victims closure and the opportunity to rebuild their lives knowing Barker will be sentenced for his behaviour.”

After being found guilty of all these offences, the hearing was adjourned to allow the probation service time to prepare a pre-sentence report.

The 71-year-old has been remanded in custody and he is required to sign onto the sex offender's register.

He is due to appear back at Swindon Crown Court for sentencing at a date and time to be fixed.