A Bromsgrove man has been sentenced to 28 years in prison, with a minimum term of 18 years, after being found guilty of 57 counts of non-recent child sexual abuse. Gary Bennett, 61, of Shenstone Close in Bromsgrove, was handed the sentence at Worcester Crown Court on Wednesday 8 May.
The abuse occurred over a nine-year period from 1995 to 2004, across various locations including Leominster, Bridgnorth, Kidderminster, Stourbridge, Habberley, and London. There was a total of seven victims, six male and one female, all of whom were children or teenagers at the time of the abuse. The offences committed by Bennett include rape, attempted rape, buggery, and indecency with a child.
The investigation into Bennett’s actions began in May 2018 when the abuse was first reported to the police.
Inspector Julie Taylor, who led the investigation, expressed her satisfaction that Bennett’s victims have finally seen him face justice. She described the abuse as “absolutely sickening” and acknowledged that it will have a lasting impact on the victims’ lives.
Inspector Taylor praised the immense courage of the victims for coming forward and commended them for their conduct throughout the lengthy and complex court proceedings. Despite the delays, the victims remained patient, dignified, and determined.
Inspector Taylor also encouraged anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault, whether recent or not, to reach out to the police. She assured them that their cases will be taken seriously and they will be listened to.
