GEORGE GALLOWAY FROM HARTLEPOOL AND MIDDLESBROUGH CAUGHT IN SHOCKING CRIME INVOLVING ROSE WEST RECEIPT

In a disturbing incident that has once again brought to light the dark side of criminal behavior, George Galloway, a known sex offender from Middlesbrough with ties to Hartlepool, was involved in an illegal activity that shocked both law enforcement and the public. The case dates back to September 2014, when Galloway was found attempting to sell a prison canteen receipt associated with Rose West, a notorious serial killer, on the popular online auction platform eBay.

Galloway, who was incarcerated at the time, was working in the canteen of Low Newton Prison, located near Durham, a facility known for housing some of the most dangerous offenders. It was during his shift that he managed to swipe a confidential prison receipt, which contained sensitive information related to Rose West, a woman convicted of ten murders in November 1995. West's crimes, committed at her residence on Cromwell Street, earned her a reputation as one of the UK's most infamous serial killers. She was also set to face trial for twelve murders before her suicide in January 1995 while in custody, at the age of 53.

Galloway, aged 50 at the time, attempted to auction this highly sensitive document with a starting bid of £300. The receipt was being sold from his cell when he was caught in the act. The authorities, upon discovering the listing, swiftly intervened. Cleveland Police confirmed that Galloway was cautioned for his actions, which involved the illegal sale of confidential prison material. The police spokesperson emphasized that Galloway’s actions were taken seriously, and he was issued a formal caution rather than facing immediate prosecution.

In response to the incident, the Ministry of Justice launched an internal investigation to determine how the receipt was obtained and to prevent similar breaches in the future. As a result, measures have been implemented to enhance the security of prison computer systems, including modifications to prevent the generation of duplicate receipts from tills.

The background of George Galloway’s criminal history is extensive. In July 2007, he was sentenced to ten years in prison for serious sexual offenses. Galloway, originally from Hartlepool, was convicted in his absence of raping a young girl and indecently assaulting her over a period of four years. The trial was conducted at Teesside Crown Court after he fled to the United States and later Canada to evade justice. It was only through advanced recognition technology that authorities managed to locate and extradite him back to the UK. During his time in a Canadian prison, Galloway wrote to the media protesting his innocence.

Detective Inspector Jason Dickson of Cleveland Police’s child abuse investigation unit highlighted the prolonged distress caused to the victims and their families due to Galloway’s attempt to avoid justice. He pointed out that Galloway’s flight to North America did not prevent law enforcement from pursuing him, and they remained committed to bringing him to account. The case was notably uncovered after the young girl involved, who cannot be named for legal reasons, confided in a friend about the abuse after recognizing Galloway on a bus. Galloway had previously instructed her not to disclose what had happened, claiming it was “their secret.”

During the sentencing hearing at Teesside Crown Court, Judge John Walford noted that Galloway continually denied the charges during interviews with probation officers. Despite this, the court sentenced him to ten years in prison, ordered him to register as a sex offender for life, and prohibited him from working with children ever again. Galloway, who previously resided on Pinero Grove in Hartlepool, also admitted to failing to answer bail after he absconded before his trial. The judge emphasized that his escape prolonged the suffering of the victim and her family, adding gravity to his sentence.

Galloway’s criminal record and recent actions serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding sexual offenses and the importance of vigilant law enforcement. His case continues to attract media attention, highlighting the need for strict security measures within the prison system and the importance of safeguarding the public from known offenders.