Michael Barker, 71, has been found guilty of nine child sex offences after a trial at Swindon Crown Court this week. Four victims showed incredible courage in bringing his heinous crimes to light.
Serial Abuser Caught After Decades
Barker, now living in Albert Hill, Durham, was convicted of six counts of indecent assault, two counts of rape, and one count of gross indecency with a child. The offences date from 1974 to 1997 and took place across Swindon, Chippenham, and Bishop Auckland.
His victims were young girls who trusted Barker, only for him to betray that trust in the worst way possible.
Detective Praises Victims’ Courage
“Firstly, I would like to praise the victims in this case, who have endured incredibly traumatic experiences but despite this, found the courage to report Barker’s behaviour to police.” – Det Con Nicola Ainsley
“Barker is an abhorrent individual – he abused these young girls, often in their own homes where they should have felt most safe, subsequently robbing them of their childhoods. His behaviour escalated over the years and when charged, he continued to deny any wrongdoing, forcing the case to go to trial and causing further distress to his victims.
“I hope this guilty verdict brings some closure and helps the victims rebuild their lives knowing Barker will be sentenced for his actions.”
Support Available for Victims
Barker is due to be sentenced soon.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, Wiltshire Police urge you to get in touch – even if many years have passed.
- Call 101 to report or seek advice.
- Wiltshire Police Sexual Assault Support
- Locate your nearest Sexual Assault Referral Centre: Swindon & Wiltshire – First Light
Help is out there. No one should suffer in silence.
