A former foster carer has been convicted of 22 counts of child sex abuse after targeting five children over a seven-year period. Bradley Dilsworth, 69, of Phoenix Close, Walthamstow, was found guilty at Snaresbrook Crown Court on May 21. The court heard that Dilsworth abused children between the ages of seven and 16 from 2002 to 2009.
Pattern of Grooming and Abuse
Dilsworth would invite children to his home after school, allowing them to smoke and drink alcohol. He presented himself as a “friendly and approachable neighbour” in Walthamstow, an adult who could be trusted around children. The 69-year-old claimed that children who spent time at his house were visiting his son, who was of a similar age. The jury rejected this defence, finding evidence of a clear grooming and abuse pattern.
Victims' Testimonies
One victim, who met Dilsworth when she was 13, believed she was in a relationship with him. Only years later did she realise she had been a victim of his crimes. Another victim was a seven-year-old girl staying at his house with her parents at the time, according to the Waltham Forest Echo.
Investigation and Evidence
During the investigation, officers uncovered an “Aladdin’s cave” of electrical devices at Dilsworth’s home, including hard drives, discs, and USB devices. CCTV footage from inside the home contained indecent imagery of one victim. Victims provided detailed floor plans of the Walthamstow property during police interviews.
Police Statement
Detective Inspector James Rush, who led the investigation, said: “I would like to thank the victims in this case for the immense courage they have shown in coming forward to report the abuse they suffered. Undetected for years, Dilsworth was able to abuse children in what my team uncovered to be a hellish after-school club, lulling young people into a false sense of security and exploiting their trust.”
Appeal for Further Victims
The Metropolitan Police has called on anyone who may have been a victim or visited Dilsworth’s addresses on Phoenix Close, Walthamstow; Grove Green Road, Leyton; Bulwer Court Road, Leytonstone; or Roberts Road, Walthamstow, to come forward. Det Insp Rush added: “We are determined to support all victim-survivors and are now asking anyone who believes they may have concerns about Dilsworth to please come forward. I want to reassure anyone impacted that you are not alone and can seek specialist support and guidance, not only from the police, but also from independent charities and services.”
