Tracey Baker

Tracey Baker, aged 41, was imprisoned for 16 years for five child sex abuse offences at Wolverhampton Crown Court, as a key figure in a 21-person ring that abused seven victims under 13 over almost a decade in Walsall and Wolverhampton. The prolonged exploitation resulted in victims suffering PTSD, depression, and severe emotional trauma.

The CPS-designated Operation Satchel was the region's biggest child abuse probe. Baker was convicted by a jury in prior trials, part of the network condemned for its depravity. Judge Simon Ward sentenced her with indefinite SHPO and restraining order, emphasising the abuse's lasting impact.

One victim endured psychotic episodes and a suicide attempt, believing adult sex was normal due to the grooming. The case emerged from a hospital safeguarding alert. CPS chief Joanne Jakymec described the abuse as 'unlike anything I have seen,' commending victims' bravery.

West Midlands Police's exhaustive five-year investigation, involving three trials over 18 months, ensured convictions despite most offenders' lack of remorse.