Barry George, cleared of Jill Dando murder, now faces rape charges
Historic Sexual Assault Allegations Against Barry George
Barry George, the man famously acquitted of murdering TV presenter Jill Dando, has been hit with fresh rape charges. The 65-year-old, living in County Cork, is accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl in west London between September 6 and 12, 1987.
He faces one count of rape and two counts of indecent assault. The alleged victim, now in her 50s, cannot be named due to legal restrictions.
Next Court Date and Police Statement
George is due in Westminster Magistrates’ Court on October 29. Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy of the Metropolitan Police said: “These charges follow an investigation by a team of Met detectives. Specially trained officers continue to support the woman who has come forward.”
Lionel Idan, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London South, added: “After thoroughly reviewing the evidence, the Crown Prosecution Service has decided to prosecute Barry George on charges of rape and two counts of indecent assault relating to non-recent allegations from 1987 against a teenage girl.”
He warned: “Proceedings are active, and George has the right to a fair trial. It’s vital there is no reporting or online sharing that could prejudice these proceedings.”
The Jill Dando Murder: Brief Recap
Jill Dando was a beloved BBC presenter, shot dead on her Fulham doorstep at 37. George was convicted in 2001 after gunshot residue was found on his coat pocket, believed linked to the murder weapon.
But that crucial evidence was later discredited. After eight years behind bars, George was acquitted at a retrial. The killing remains unsolved, with no other arrests.
