Former Cambridge Police officer guilty of historic sex offences
The victim reported the crimes to Essex Police in 2018
Last updated 20th Apr 2023
A man has been found guilty of historic sexual abuse offences - after an investigation by Essex Police.
James Boyle, now 69, abused the victim who was a teenager at the time, between 1986 and 1991.
At the time, Boyle was a serving police officer for Cambridgeshire Police and the offences took place at a number of locations within the county.
The offences were reported to Essex Police in 2018 after an exchange of messages on social on media.
When reporting what had happened, the victim stated the abuse had left her feeling upset, ashamed and guilty.
At the time he was arrested, Boyle was working as a criminal defence barrister.
Boyle, of Sunbury Place, Edinburgh, was charged with several sexual offences including rape.
However, following a trial at Cambridgeshire Crown Court he was found guilty today (Wednesday 19 April) of two counts of rape, and one count of indecent assault.
He was found not guilty of seven other offences.
He’s due to be sentenced at the same court on 25 May.
Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Carla Hillyer said:
“I want to praise the bravery demonstrated by the victim in this case for coming forward and reporting what had happened to her.
“James Boyle subjected her to half a decade of abuse which has had an impact on the rest of her life.
“He then tried to deny any abuse had ever happened. Thankfully, he was not believed by the jury and now faces a significant amount of time behind bars.
“Nothing will undo the damage his actions have done but I hope this result will help her move forward.
“I hope this conviction shows it is never too late to get justice and we will support you.
“Boyle worked as a criminal defence barrister, he knew this system, and what the victim was up against.
“This was not a barrier to us pushing forward with our investigation and the CPS prosecuting and, ultimately, securing justice.
DS Hillyer added: “I also want to highlight the work of Detective Constable Adam Clarke who has worked tirelessly on this case.
“I am pleased our efforts have resulted in Boyle’s conviction and justice for the victim.”
Support is there for anyone affected by rape and sexual abuse, and no victim or survivor is alone. Synergy Essex provides specialist support for victims and survivors of rape and sexual abuse of all ages and all genders across Essex, Thurrock and Southend.