One vulnerable female reported 63-year-old Roy Foster to the police after he raped her and sexually assaulted her, and an investigation was subsequently launched.
Further victims came forward during the investigation, which was led by Stockton CID, the Complex Exploitation Team and the Domestic Abuse Unit, and Foster was soon charged with eight offences.
He was charged with three counts of rape, two counts of attempted rape, one count of indecent assault, one count of sexual assault and one count of child abduction with intent to commit a sexual offence.
Foster denied the offences and a two-week trial took place in January. On 24th January, Foster, of Low Grange Avenue, Billingham, was found guilty of all eight counts by the jury.
He appeared at Teesside Crown Court today (13th May) where the judge handed him 32 years.
Detective Constable James Limon said: “This case was a collaborative effort by Stockton CID, the Complex Exploitation Team and the Domestic Abuse Unit. Roy Foster is a dangerous sexual predator who targeted and abused vulnerable females, both adults and children, over the last 40 years.
“His youngest victim managed to escape harm thanks to the quick-thinking actions of a member of the public. Had that not occurred, Roy Foster would have likely committed further offences against that child.
“I would like to commend all the victims for their bravery throughout the whole process and subsequent trial. It’s because of their bravery and commitment that Roy Foster is unable to harm anyone else. I hope they can take some comfort in that knowledge and start to move forward.”
