'Sexual predator' found guilty of trafficking and sexually exploiting vulnerable teenager

Wednesday 03 May 2023

A "sexual predator" has been convicted of grooming a vulnerable teenage girl from the UK online before luring her to Jersey and sexually exploiting her.

Shay John Edward Bester (47) was found guilty on Wednesday of one count of trafficking, two of rape, three of assault, and one count of sexual penetration without consent.

The jury, who were unanimous in their guilty verdicts, took nearly six hours before reaching their decision following a six-day trial at the Royal Court.

Bester first met his victim in an online chat room, where he sought to establish an emotional connection in order to gain her trust.

He then arranged for her to come to Jersey, isolating her from her family and friends, and raped her after giving her a bottle of vodka, according to court documents.

While under investigation, Bester also sent a text to the victim using a new phone, claiming to be a States police officer, the court heard.

Pictured: The jury took nearly six hours before reaching their decision following a six-day trial at the Royal Court.

Speaking following the conviction, Detective Constable Charles Vibert said: "Shay Bester is a sexual predator, who targeted a vulnerable young female, in order that he could fulfil his own sexual fantasies.

"The journey that the victim has been through in the lead up to this trial, has been challenging, and our thoughts go out to her and her family. I hope that today’s guilty verdict, will offer them a degree of closure which will help them to rebuild their lives. The victim has been supported throughout this process, by experienced support workers from Jersey Domestic Abuse Support, and police colleagues in the UK.

"The States of Jersey Police are committed to investigating and prosecuting all sexual offenders and want to assure victims that there are a number of agencies who are able to offer support and guidance through all stages of the criminal justice process."

Bester was remanded in custody and will next appear before the court on 12 May.

The Sexual Assault Referral Centre at Dewberry House provides expert independent and confidential support to victims of sexual abuse.

The centre comprises of a team of experts with a wealth of knowledge and experience in advising, supporting and treating anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted. They can be reached on 01534 888222.