WILLIAM WALKER OF COLCHESTER JAILED FOR HISTORIC SEXUAL ABUSE CASES AFTER VICTIM'S SECRET RECORDING

In a case that highlights the importance of perseverance and courage in seeking justice, William Walker, a 50-year-old man from Colchester, Essex, has been convicted and sentenced for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against a young girl decades ago.

Walker’s criminal activities began when the victim was only five years old and continued until she reached the age of nine. For many years, he believed he had successfully evaded justice, carrying the burden of his crimes in silence. It was only when the victim, now in her 30s, decided to confront her past that the tide turned.

In 2011, she approached Walker and recorded a 33-minute confession on her mobile phone, capturing his admissions of the abuse. This recording proved pivotal in the case, providing the evidence needed to bring Walker to trial. Despite his denial of all charges, the jury found him guilty of rape and seven counts of indecent assault during the proceedings at Chelmsford Crown Court.

Following his conviction, Walker was sentenced to nine years in prison. The victim expressed her relief and sense of justice, stating, “He (Walker) deserves everything he gets — we were hoping for double figures. People should know what this man is.” She also reflected on her journey, saying, “It has taken me years of strength and therapy just to get where I am today. It made me not want to be a little girl — he called me a dirty little girl. I don’t know what kind of person I would have been if this had not happened to me, but it has actually made me stronger.”

Her courage in coming forward has also served as an inspiration to other victims of historic sexual abuse. She urged others to find the strength to speak out, emphasizing that it is never too late to seek justice. “If anyone does have a historic case, it does not mean it is too late to say what has happened. People should not carry on being victimized. It is not about victory. It is about being able to put it behind you like I have. I have put it to rest and can now move on with my life,” she said.

Police officials, including Essex Police Detective Sergeant Kerry Hackett, praised the victim’s bravery. Hackett remarked, “In this case, the victim had the presence of mind to use a mobile phone to record the conversation. It took immense courage for her to speak out. Hopefully, the sentence will send a message to victims that we will treat your case with sensitivity and will punish those responsible for such terrible crimes. The message to abusers is that no matter how many years ago you committed your crimes, we will still seek to prosecute you and bring you to justice. I would encourage all victims of sexual abuse to come forward.”

This case underscores the critical importance of persistence and courage in seeking justice for victims of sexual abuse, regardless of how much time has passed since the offenses occurred.