Retired constable jailed for over 30 years of abuse

A retired police officer has been jailed for a series of sexual assaults spanning more than three decades.

Former Police Constable James Belam, 73, of Chingford, was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment on Thursday (December 1) for a number of sexual offences against young girls.

The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) said his crimes began in the mid-80s and continued until at least August 2015.

None of the offences are believed to have been committed while on duty as a constable on Waltham Forest Borough before his retirement.

Belam was arrested after one of his victims disclosed that she had been abused by him in August 2015. Other victims then came forward and accused Belam of similar offences.

A spokesperson for the MPS said the MPS’ Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command launched an investigation culminating in him being charged in April this year.

Detective Inspector Stuart Cheek said: “This conviction shows that no matter when offences like this take place they will be investigated thoroughly and those responsible will be brought to justice.

“It is clear from his pattern of offending that Belam thought he could get away with the offences that spanned a period of three decades. He continued to sexually abuse young girls until his arrest.

“Thanks to the bravery of the victims coming forward, he now faces a lengthy jail term and will have to face up to his horrendous crimes.”

Belam pleaded guilty and was sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on November 4 for the following offences: