24 Hours in Police Custody to focus on the subsequent investigation into a prolific sex offender

The second investigation into prolific sex offender Carson Grimes will be the focus of the next episode of 24 Hours in Police Custody airing on Tuesday (28 January) at 9pm on Channel 4.

Grimes, also known as Carson Phillips, was handed an initial life sentence with a minimum term of 22 years after being jailed in October 2021 for grooming, raping and sexually abusing nine young people at his ‘horror house’ in Luton. 

After the case was heavily featured in the media, including on a previous episode of 24 Hours in Police Custody, several new victims came forward, which prompted a fresh investigation by Bedfordshire Police’s dedicated Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) team.

Grimes was given another life sentence in June last year after pleading guilty to 24 new charges in relation to 13 victims dating back to 1987. He has to serve a minimum term of 22 years and nine months before he is considered for parole.

Detective Chief Superintendent Zara Brown, Head of Bedfordshire Police’s Crime and Public Protection Unit, said: “Without a doubt, this was one of the largest child sexual abuse and exploitation cases that we have ever dealt with, and Grimes is one of the most depraved predators that we have come across.

“He targeted young, vulnerable people for his own sexual gratification by pretending to be a friend to them and inviting them to his house. He then plied them with drink and drugs before subjecting them to horrific sexual abuse.

“All the victims have carried the trauma he inflicted on them well into adulthood, with many experiencing long-term emotional and psychological harm. Some have struggled with trust, relationships, and mental health, and the impact of his actions has shaped their lives in ways that cannot be undone.

“Victims of sexual abuse or exploitation often don’t realise they are being groomed. They may feel responsible or even believe they agreed to what happened, but that is never the case.

“Sadly, many carry this burden for years before they feel able to speak out. But we want them to know that it is never too late to talk to us or get the support they may need.

“We will tirelessly pursue offenders, no matter how long ago the abuse took place. In this case even though Grimes was already facing substantial time behind bars, it was important to bring further charges against him to get justice for the additional victims who showed such bravery in coming forward.

"We know how hard it can be to report abuse, but we are here to listen and support you every step of the way.”

Visit the Bedfordshire Police website for advice, information and how to report incidents of child sexual abuse, even if it happened a while ago: https://www.beds.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/caa/child-abuse/