Man Jailed for 28 Years for Historic Child Sexual Abuse

A 61-year-old man, Gary Bennett of Shenstone Close, Bromsgrove, has been sentenced to 28 years in prison for 57 counts of historic child sexual abuse. Bennett will serve a minimum of 18 years before being eligible for parole.

The abuse occurred over a nine-year period, from 1995 to 2004, in various locations including Leominster, Bridgnorth, Kidderminster, Stourbridge, Habberley, and London. There were seven victims in total, six male and one female, all of whom were children or teenagers at the time of the abuse.

Bennett was found guilty of offences including rape, attempted rape, buggery, and indecency with a child. The abuse was first reported to police in May 2018, leading to an immediate investigation.

Inspector Julie Taylor, who led the investigation, stated, "This has been a long and complex case, and I'm pleased that Bennett's victims have finally been able to see him face justice. The abuse he put them through is absolutely sickening and is something which will affect them for the rest of their lives."

Inspector Taylor commended the victims for their courage in coming forward, stating, "I don't underestimate the immense courage it took for the victims to come forward, and I'd like to commend them on their conduct throughout. Despite many delays in court proceedings, they have remained patient, dignified, and determined."

Inspector Taylor encouraged anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault to come forward, stating, "I'd encourage anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault, whether as an adult or child, and whether recent or not, to get in touch with us. You will be taken seriously and you will be listened to."