Barry George, the man famously cleared of murdering BBC television presenter Jill Dando, is now facing serious historical sexual offence charges. The 65-year-old appeared at the Old Bailey via video-link to answer allegations concerning a 14-year-old girl.
Court Appearance and Charges
During a plea and case management hearing, George, currently of County Cork in the Republic of Ireland, spoke only to confirm his identity. He is formally charged with one count of rape and two counts of indecent assault against the same child, who is entitled to lifelong anonymity.
The prosecution alleges these crimes occurred in the Hammersmith and Fulham area of west London over a specific period in September 1987. Judge Mark Lucraft KC agreed to delay the plea hearing by twelve weeks, scheduling it for Friday, February 13. The judge granted George continued unconditional bail and authorised his future attendance by video-link from Dublin.
Connection to Jill Dando Case
Barry George's name remains inextricably linked to one of Britain's most high-profile unsolved murders. He was arrested in 2000 for the killing of Crimewatch presenter Jill Dando, who was shot dead outside her home in Fulham on April 26, 1999.
Although convicted in 2001, his conviction was overturned by the Court of Appeal in November 2007. A subsequent retrial in August 2008 ended with a jury finding him not guilty. To this day, no one has been convicted of the murder of the 37-year-old TV star.
Case Progression and Next Steps
The legal process for the new charges is now underway, with the case set to progress in the new year. The twelve-week adjournment allows both the prosecution and defence to prepare their cases fully before pleas are entered.
The allegations, which date back 38 years, represent a significant new legal challenge for George, who has remained largely out of the public eye since his acquittal for murder.
