Predator Sentenced 16 Years for Child Sex Abuse After 45 Years of Silence
Raymond John Hollis, 79, from Westbury, Wiltshire, was locked up for 16 years yesterday (12 January) after admitting 12 historic child sex offences dating back to the 1970s.
Abuse Spanned Six Years in Camberley
The crimes took place in Camberley over a six-year period, targeting a victim aged between 5 and 11. The victim stayed silent for 45 years before bravely reporting the abuse to police in March 2019.
Hollis was arrested less than a month later, on 8 April 2019.
Thorough Investigation Ends in Guilty Pleas
Following a detailed investigation, Hollis was charged on Christmas Eve 2019 with six counts of indecent assault and six counts of gross indecency involving a child under 13 between 1973 and 1979.
He pleaded guilty to 11 of these counts on 30 November 2020, having already admitted the remaining charge at an earlier hearing.
Detective Praises Victim’s Courage, Issues Warning to Perpetrators
“The victim has shown remarkable courage and bravery in coming forward and reporting this offence to the police,” said Detective Constable Mike Powell from the Sexual Offences Investigation Team.
“Thanks to their bravery, a dangerous predator is now off the streets and cannot harm others.”
“This conviction sends a clear message to victims that Surrey Police will exhaust every effort to seek justice, no matter how much time has passed. Perpetrators beware – serious sexual offences will not be tolerated.”
Surrey Police have specially trained officers dedicated to supporting abuse survivors and treating sexual assault allegations with utmost seriousness. For help and advice, visit Surrey Police Rape and Sexual Assault support page.
