Disabled sex attacker sentenced

A disabled man from south-east London has been jailed for three years for preying on those more vulnerable than himself in a historic case in which a Stephen Hawking-style voice machine was used in court. Wheelchair user Christopher Killick thought he would get away with sexual assaults on two men because they could not communicate. But last month he was convicted of sexual assault and buggery on physically disabled men between 1991 and 2005.

The two victims braved their disabilities to give evidence at the Old Bailey. One used a Stephen Hawking-style machine to speak for him and the other used an intermediary to communicate with the court. Killick, 47, of Bermondsey, who like his victims suffers from cerebral palsy, denied the charges but did not give evidence. Johannah Cutts QC, prosecuting, said Killick was more physically able at the time he befriended the men and committed the offences.



She said: "He knew how difficult it would be for them to tell others what had happened. Christopher Killick has socialised and worked within the disabled community for many years. He abused his friendship with these complainants and took advantage of their difficulties. He forced himself sexually on men who could do nothing to prevent it and whom he believed would never be able to complain or tell others what had happened to them." A third complainant also used the voice machine to pick out symbols to give evidence, but Killick was cleared of a rape charge against him.

Alison Saunders, chief crown prosecutor for CPS London, said: "I would like to pay tribute to the victims and witness in this case for their patience and determination in giving evidence. Without them, Christopher Killick would never have faced the consequences of his actions. During the trial we were faced with a unique and challenging set of circumstances. But in bringing this case, we have shown our belief that justice should be secured for every member of our society who needs it."