JOHN OYSTON SHOCKS YORK WITH CHILD ABUSE CONVICTIONS AND STRIKING OFF FROM PHARMACY REGISTRY

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the city of York, John Roger Oyston, a 55-year-old pharmacist with over three decades of professional experience, has been formally removed from the register of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society following his conviction for child abuse. Oyston’s criminal activities, which spanned over 15 years, only came to light after an unusual turn of events during an inquiry into another pharmacist accused of indecency.

While seeking character witnesses for the other individual, an inquiry agent inadvertently contacted one of Oyston’s victims. This mistake led to the uncovering of Oyston’s long-standing abuse of two young boys, aged nine and 14, which ultimately resulted in his imprisonment. The offending took place over a period during which Oyston, who resided on Burton Stone Lane in York at the time of his arrest, exploited his position and trust to commit heinous acts.

His pharmacy, Burton Pharmacy located on Intake Avenue, was taken over by another pharmacist early in the previous year, following the revelations of his crimes. The Royal Pharmaceutical Society’s Statutory Committee convened yesterday to deliberate on Oyston’s professional standing. The committee, led by Chairman Gary Flather, decided that it was necessary to strike him off the register as a clear statement of public condemnation and to uphold the integrity of the profession. Flather emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “There is, after all these years, a sting that hurts. We have to mark the abhorrence of the public and the Society.”

Oyston had previously pleaded guilty to 10 counts of indecent assault in December 1997. His sentencing took place at York Crown Court on February 13 of the following year, where he received a three-year prison term. It is anticipated that he will be released in August, but he remains on the sex offenders’ register for life, underscoring the severity of his crimes.

During the proceedings, Oyston requested that his case be adjourned, citing his desire to avoid attending the hearing in handcuffs or flanked by prison officers. The committee, however, decided to proceed with the case in his absence. Subsequently, Oyston communicated via letter, instructing the Society to remove his name from the professional register. In his letter, he expressed profound remorse and described the impact of his imprisonment, stating, “I cannot explain the disgrace of prison life or the devastating effect it has on morale — one has to experience it first-hand.” He further explained that his conviction and incarceration had severely diminished his self-confidence and self-esteem, making it difficult for him to face the inquiry process.

The committee also heard details of the abuse, which included sexual misconduct during railway trips and at Oyston’s own home. The revelations have cast a long shadow over York’s community, raising questions about safeguarding and the oversight of professionals entrusted with public trust.