Roger McColm

A predatory sex offender from Portland, Dorset, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for historical child sexual abuse offences committed decades ago. Roger McColm, aged 82 and residing in Southwell on Portland, was found guilty of abusing three young girls between 1969 and approximately 1980. The case came to light following a courageous report from one of the victims in April 2019, prompting a thorough investigation by Dorset Police.

McColm appeared at Bournemouth Crown Court on 13 June 2023, where a jury convicted him of four counts of indecent assault, two counts of sexual intercourse with a girl under 13 years old, and one count of indecency with a child. Despite denying all allegations during police interviews, the evidence presented led to his unanimous conviction. Sentencing took place at Salisbury Crown Court on Friday, 29 September 2023, with Judge X delivering the 25-year custodial sentence, reflecting the severity and lasting impact of the crimes.

Detective Constable George Boast, from Dorset Police's Child Abuse Investigation Team, commended the victims' bravery in coming forward. In a statement, he said: 'All three of the victims in this case have been exceptionally brave in coming forward and speaking to officers about the abuse they suffered. I am pleased that following an investigation, McColm was held accountable for his actions, which have had a long-lasting impact on the victims. I hope this case shows that no matter when an incident occurred, we will always support victims and carry out detailed enquiries to ensure sexual offenders are brought to justice.' The investigation highlighted the ongoing commitment of Dorset Police to pursuing justice for historical sexual offences against children.

The offences occurred in the Portland area, where McColm targeted vulnerable young girls over an 11-year period. Details of the abuse, including the specific acts of sexual intercourse and assault, were outlined in court, underscoring the predatory nature of his behaviour. This case serves as a stark reminder of the enduring trauma inflicted by such crimes and the importance of reporting them, regardless of the time elapsed.