Man found guilty of multiple child sex offences
Police have praised the bravery of the four victims
Last updated 10th Oct 2025
Police have praised the bravery of four victims after a man was found guilty of multiple child sex offences.
Michael Barker, 71, currently of Albert Hill, Durham, was found guilty of six counts of indecent assault, two counts of rape and gross indecency with a child following a trial at Swindon Crown Court this week.
Barker carried out the attacks between 1974 and 1997 at various addresses in Swindon, Chippenham and Bishop Auckland.
Det Con Nicola Ainsley said: “Firstly, I would like to praise the victims in this case, who have endured incredibly traumatic experiences but despite this, found the courage to report Barker’s behaviour to police.
"This case is another example of why it is so important to get in touch with police if you have been a victim of rape, sexual assault, or any other sexual offence, regardless of how much time has passed.
“The bravery of the victims has enabled us to ensure Barker was put before the courts where they have reached a guilty verdict following a trial.
“Barker is an abhorrent individual – he abused these young girls, often in their own homes where they should have felt most safe, subsequently robbing them of their childhoods.
"His behaviour escalated over the years and when charged, he continued to deny any wrongdoing, forcing the case to go to trial and causing further distress to his victims.
“I know that, tragically, the impact of abuse of this nature as a young child is carried by the victims for the rest of their lives.
"Whilst this court result will not take that away entirely, I hope that a guilty verdict will go some way in giving the victims closure and the opportunity to rebuild their lives knowing Barker will be sentenced for his behaviour.”
Barker is due for sentencing at a later date.