Child sex abuser convicted

Graham Tudgay, 64, previously of Avening Street, Gorse Hill, was found guilty of sexual assault and causing/inciting a girl aged 13 to 15 to engage in sexual activity, following a four-day trial by jury.
He was bailed ahead of sentencing on 28 September.
On 24 February 2024, Tudgay sexually assaulted a teenage girl who was known to him in the presence of a second teenage girl.
The victim, who had been at Tudgay’s address, left the property. The incident was reported to police and Tudgay was swiftly arrested.
In his first interview, Tudgay denied any sexual activity had taken place. In a second interview, despite forensic evidence being put to him, Tudgay continued to deny any activity had taken place.
He was subsequently charged with the offences and, despite what the police describe as clear evidence against him, pleaded not guilty, forcing the victim and witness to be put through a trial.
DC Melanie Reeves from our Child Abuse Investigation Team said: “Tudgay’s offences against the victim are absolutely vile.
“The victim and witness should have been able to feel safe in his presence but instead he committed awful sexual offences against the victim while the witness was in close proximity.
“Not only that but he completely denied what he had done despite knowing the evidence against him and the significant impact his crimes have had, forcing the victim and witness to relive the experience through a trial.
“I want to commend the victim and witness for their bravery in giving statements against him and for continuing with the court case despite the amount of time it has taken.
“Their strength has directly led to the guilty verdicts against Tudgay.
“I want to reassure victims that when you report crimes like this, you will be listened to and we will do all we can to hold individuals like Tudgay accountable for their actions.”
 

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