Ex-School Caretaker Jailed for Decades of Child Abuse
Victor Jacob, 76, from Balmoral Crescent, Macclesfield, was sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court on Friday, 24 September. He was found guilty after a five-week trial of 36 offences, including multiple counts of indecent assault on boys under 16, causing a child to engage in sexual activity, and indecency with a child.
Despicable Crimes Spanned Nearly Three Decades
The court heard Jacob abused five different boys between October 1979 and May 2007. As a school caretaker and groundsman in Bromley, plus a Scout leader, he used his position to groom boys aged 11 and over. Jacob gained their trust before sexually abusing them at various locations.
Victims Speak Out, Police Act
- In 2017, three men independently came forward accusing Jacob of abuse.
- Police launched an investigation and found two more victims.
- Jacob was interviewed in February 2018 and charged in October 2019.
Jacob was also handed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order to stop him from contacting children.
Detective Praises Victims’ Courage
Detective Constable Mark Tarrant said: “Jacob’s conviction shows the Metropolitan Police will hunt down abusers no matter how long ago the crimes happened. The five men have carried this burden for years. Their bravery through this painful process is commendable. No more victims will suffer because of Jacob. I hope this verdict brings them some relief.”
