Grant Wedlake

Grant Wedlake, a 32-year-old man from Felton in North Somerset, was convicted at Bristol Crown Court on Friday, January 26, 2024, of 12 serious sex offences spanning from 2005 to 2021. The charges included multiple counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, multiple counts of rape of a child under 13, multiple counts of rape, possession and distribution of an indecent image, and possession of extreme pornographic images. These crimes were perpetrated against women, girls, and boys over a 16-year period, beginning when Wedlake was a youth and continuing into his adult life.

The offences came to light after reports were made to Avon and Somerset Police in 2022. Investigating officer Ellen Rye highlighted the severity of Wedlake's actions, stating: 'Grant Wedlake has abused multiple victims over a significant period of time, spanning from his youth, into his adult life. He took advantage of them at their most vulnerable moments and has used this to control them for his own benefit.' The bravery of the victims in coming forward was instrumental in the investigation, which praised their patience, courage, and determination throughout the process.

Wedlake, who has no fixed address, exploited his victims' vulnerabilities to exert control for his own gratification. The court proceedings at Bristol Crown Court underscored the long-term nature of the abuse, with offences dating back to 2005. Following his conviction, Wedlake is scheduled to be sentenced for all offences on Friday, March 1, 2024, at the same court. The case was reported by the North Somerset Times, drawing on details from Avon and Somerset Police.