.jpg)
The Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has praised the victims of a sex attacker for their tenacity after he was convicted of his crimes three years after they came forward.
Brian Greenslade, 72, the former leader of Devon County Council and ex-chairman of the Devon and Cornwall Police Authority, was convicted of three counts of sexual assault at Exeter Crown Court this morning.
His female victims approached police in 2018, but Greenslade’s denial and delays caused by the coronavirus pandemic caused delays to the trial.
Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: “I would like to pay tribute to Brian Greenslade’s victims, who not only came forward to give evidence in the first place but who were then put through the ordeal of a trial that could have been avoided had he admitted his vile crimes in the first place.
“It is the victims’ tenacity and faith in the police and the criminal justice system that has persuaded a jury of his guilt and perhaps prevented yet more offences. I would urge all those affected by sexual offences to seek specialist help and advice from the wide range of services available, many of which are commissioned by my office.
“I hope this conviction sends a message to both victims and offenders that complaints will be taken seriously, investigations will be carried out and convictions can be secured.”
Commissioner Hernandez is lobbying the Ministry of Justice to clear a backlog of cases caused by the pandemic.
Free practical and emotional help and advice for crime victims, whether or not it has been reported to police, is available from the Devon and Cornwall Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900 or via Victim Support 24/7, on 0808 1689 111 or online at www.victimsupport.org.uk.