Victims in sex abuse inquiry ‘must come forward’

Devon and Cornwall Police announced last week that they were investigating the suspected grooming of children, mainly girls, aged 12 and above in Torbay and Teignbridge.

A 19-year-old man appeared in court last week charged with two counts of engaging or inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity and was remanded in custody.

Police say further arrests are expected as the inquiry into alleged offences ranging from indecent assault to rape gathers pace.

Detective Inspector Simon Snell, who is leading the inquiry, praised the bravery of those who had already come forward.

He said: “I cannot emphasise enough how brave some of the people who have come forward and spoken to us are.

“It takes a great amount of courage to come forward and speak about such matters.

“We would like to reassure anyone who is considering talking to us but has not done so, that if they are fearful we will put in place any necessary protection for them.

“They are brave but we need them to put their trust in us.”

He added: “We can protect you.”

The inquiry started after children came forward to childcare agencies which alerted police.

A team of 50 police officers are working on the investigation which is looking at offences alleged to have occurred over a two to three-year period.

Specially trained police officers and social workers have interviewed more than 20 children and on Monday police said their list of alleged victims is growing.

Police said each child is being supported by a carefully considered care plan, making use of several agencies’ skills and specialism, and interviews are being sensitively handled.

Mr Snell added: “Further arrests are likely to follow but it is essential that we are utterly methodical and robust in our inquiries.”

Jake Ormerod, of Babbacombe Road, Torquay, appeared at Exeter Crown Court on February 18 charged under the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

He is due to appear before the same court for a plea and directions hearing on May 27.