Sexual predator jailed for more than 15 years

A courageous woman has helped put a sexual predator behind bars for more than 15 years.

John Barkess sexually assaulted the woman in the 1980s when she was a teenager. She bravely reported it to police at the time but sadly, the case was not progressed.

In 2021, after discovering Barkess had also targeted other teenage girls, she wanted to speak out again.

The woman contacted police and the investigation was taken on by Investigating Officer Laura White, from Durham Constabulary’s West Safeguarding Team.

Understanding that the woman was terrified that the case would not be progressed again, Laura took the time to build up her trust, telling the woman: “I believe you.”

As a result, two further women also came forward to report they too had been abused by Barkess as teens.

The 83-year-old of Northumbria Place, Stanley, was arrested and later charged with rape and six counts of indecent assault on a child.

He denied the offences but was found guilty by a jury following a lengthy trial.

He appeared at Durham Crown Court last Thursday (April 25) where he was jailed for 15 years and six months, and placed on the sex offenders register for life.

Investigating Officer White said: “I commend the bravery of all three women and thank them for trusting me and working with me on a journey that would have almost seemed impossible for them at the beginning.

“It has been incredibly rewarding to work with these women and get them the justice they so rightly deserve.

“I urge anyone who has suffered sexual abuse to come forward and speak to police. It is never too late - we believe you and we will do something about it.”

Anyone has suffered sexual abuse should come forward and report it to police – call 101, or 999 in an emergency.

If you are not ready to speak to police, there are other helplines available:

• The Meadows Sexual Assault Referral Centre – call 0330 223 0099 or visit www.sarcdurham.co.uk
• 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line – call 0808 550 2222 or visit www.247sexualabusesupport.org.uk
• NSPCC – call 0808 800 5000 or visit www.nspcc.org.uk