London Deacon Guilty of Historic Sexual Offences
Police appeal for further victims as senior – Police appeal for further victims as John Grant, a senior church deacon from north London, was convicted of multiple sexual offences spanning more than four decades. The 77-year-old, who lives in Hornsey, was found guilty at Wood Green Crown Court of assaulting four young men between 1970 and 2012. The convictions include three charges of sexual assault, six counts of indecent assault, and two separate counts for causing another individual to participate in non-penetrative sexual acts. These findings were announced on Monday following a comprehensive investigation by Metropolitan Police detectives.
A Career Spanning Multiple Churches
Grant held significant positions within several religious organizations throughout his life. His ecclesiastical roles included serving as a deacon and leading youth groups across various locations. Among his most notable positions were senior roles at Muswell Hill Baptist Church in north London and Billingham Baptist Church in Stockton-on-Tees. His religious service extended even further back in time. Records indicate that Grant belonged to the Broomknoll Church of Scotland in Airdrie between 1965 and 1970. Additionally, he was affiliated with Ward Green Baptist Church in Barnsley from 1973 until 1984. While stationed at Muswell Hill, Grant also served as moderator for the London Baptist Association. This responsibility required him to travel extensively to visit other congregations within the same geographical district, potentially exposing more young people to his behavior.
The Investigation Unfolds
The case came to light in 2023 when one victim courageously reported being sexually assaulted over nearly two decades. This individual had moved into a shared residence with Grant in 1994 and subsequently faced pressure to receive massages that involved inappropriate sexual contact. Following this initial report, detectives systematically examined churches and youth organizations where Grant had previously worked. Their diligent work uncovered additional victims who had suffered similar abuse. Detective Constable Liam Levy, who directed the investigation, expressed deep appreciation for those who came forward. He emphasized how their testimonies were instrumental in revealing the full extent of Grant’s misconduct.
“This is a deeply distressing case involving a number of non-recent sexual offences, and I would like to recognise the courage and bravery shown by the victim-survivors in coming forward and putting their trust in us.”
Levy continued by highlighting how these early accounts enabled investigators to understand the magnitude of the problem.
“This conviction would not have been possible without their accounts that were provided in the early stages of the investigation, which helped identify the scale of Grant’s prolific offending across more than four decades.”
The detective noted that all victims were vulnerable young men who had placed their confidence in Grant through his church connections. He described it as devastating that these individuals could be exploited in such a manner.
“The victim-survivors were vulnerable young men who put their trust in Grant through his church association, and it is devastating they could be taken advantage of in this way.”
Police Appeal for Additional Victims
Investigators believe that Grant may have targeted additional victims beyond those who have already been identified. The Metropolitan Police are actively seeking anyone with relevant information to contact them. Detective Constable Levy reiterated the force’s commitment to handling all sexual offence reports with care, regardless of when they occurred.
“As this case demonstrates, the Met is firmly committed to investigating all reports of rape and sexual offences, even if they occurred many years ago. Any victim-survivor that comes forward will be treated with dignity, compassion and sensitivity at every step of the way.”
Members of the public who wish to provide information can reach police by calling 101 and quoting reference CAD3277/08JUL26. Those preferring to remain anonymous may contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or submit details through their online platform.
Upcoming Sentencing
John Grant is scheduled to receive his sentence at Wood Green Crown Court on Friday, September 11. The court proceedings will determine the appropriate punishment following his guilty verdict on all nine counts. The case serves as a powerful reminder that historical sexual offences can be successfully prosecuted, even when many years have passed since the original incidents. The courage displayed by the victim-survivors has enabled justice to be served and may encourage others with similar experiences to come forward. Police continue to appeal for further victims who may have been affected by Grant’s actions during his extensive career in religious leadership.
