Michael Godbold

Michael Godbold, 57, from Uxbridge Road, Shepherd's Bush, London, was jailed for 11 years for sexual activity with a child, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, arranging or facilitating child prostitution, and possession of controlled drugs. The convictions arose from his role in the sexual exploitation of a vulnerable teenager in Birmingham's red light area in 2009 and 2010, as established at Warwick Crown Court.

The boy, who had run away from care at 14, was prostituted by Stephen Kelly and subjected to severe abuse, including rapes and beatings. Godbold's actions involved direct sexual contact and arranging encounters, with some abuse broadcast online. The case gained traction after the victim's persistent complaint in 2012, following ignored reports to West Midlands Police.

• Godbold's facilitation enabled the ongoing prostitution ring.
• Drug possession charges linked to the exploitative environment.

Judge Sylvia de Bertadano addressed the perpetrators: 'Each of you in your own way exploited this vulnerable boy.' West Midlands Police learned from the investigation's shortcomings, with Assistant Chief Constable Carl Foulkes labelling the offences 'horrific.' The proceedings also identified a separate indecent assault victim from Ronald Potter's past.