THE States police are investigating a number of cases similar to that involving Shay Bester, who was this week convicted of luring a teenage girl to the Island and sexually exploiting her.
Following a six-day jury trial Bester (47), described as a ‘sexual predator’ by the force, was found guilty of raping and assaulting his victim.
Speaking following the trial, police chief Robin Smith said that the States police were currently investigating a number of similar cases and that more people might end up appearing in court in future.
Mr Smith also assured Islanders that Jersey was ‘very well equipped’ to support the most vulnerable victims of crime.
He said that ‘the Island comes together and there are resources and investment which supports victims’.
Mr Smith said: ‘Jersey, in my view, is very well equipped in its determination to investigate and also support victims.
‘Dealing with the most vulnerable victims and the most serious crimes takes a huge degree of knowledge, skill and training.
‘Our detectives unit isn’t a big unit – we have 11 detectives who punch enormously above their weight. They work flat out.’
He added: ‘We are determined to ensure that future victims understand the enormous care and effort that goes into supporting them.’
Mr Smith added that while the States police were busy – for example while dealing with both the Pier Road explosion and L’Ecume II sinking this winter – the force ‘still found capacity’ to investigate other crimes and support victims.
