Detention centre staff on abuse rap
SEVEN former detention centre workers are to appear in court over abuse allegations.
The men have all been summonsed to answer charges of misconduct in a public office and physical abuse offences, while some will also answer sexual abuse charges, following an investigation into allegations of abuse at Medomsley Detention Centre, near Consett.
The men are due to appear before Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, December 19. They are all former members of staff at Medomsley.
The investigation – named Operation Seabrook – was launched by Durham Constabulary in August 2013 and is one of the largest of its kind in the UK.
So far, more than 1,480 men have contacted the Operation Seabrook team to report allegations they were either of sexually or physically assaulted while detained at Medomsley from the 1960s to when the centre closed in 1988, police say.
The officer leading the investigation, Det Chief Supt Adrian Green, said: “Today’s announcement marks a significant step forward in what has been, and continues to be, a long and complex investigation.
“Enquiries do not stop here – the Operation Seabrook team and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) remain committed in continuing to move the investigation forward.
“In February this year, we submitted 32 files to the CPS for charging decisions. A number of people are still under investigation so we do not rule out further charges in the future.
“I would like to reassure victims and survivors that they are at the heart of everything we do. Professional support has been offered to anyone who needs help.
“Anyone who believes they are a victim and has not already contacted the police should call us on 101 or email operation.seabrook@durham.pnn.police.uk.”
EX-WORKERS ON CHARGES OF PHYSICAL AND SEXUAL ASSAULTS