Channel 4 Alters Broadcast Schedule Following Disturbing Episode
Channel 4 has announced a significant schedule shake-up for its long-running documentary series 24 Hours In Police Custody, moving its weekly episode from its regular Tuesday slot to Monday evening. This temporary change makes way for a special one-off documentary titled The Tony Blair Story on Tuesday, February 16th at 9pm.
Viewer Reaction to 'Horror House' Episode
The schedule adjustment comes after audiences expressed profound shock and distress following the broadcast of an episode dubbed Horror House, which many described as the worst they have ever seen in the series. Viewers took to social media platforms, including X and TikTok, to voice their reactions, with some stating they felt physically sick and were forced to switch off due to the harrowing content.
The two-part special, which continues this week, delves into the crimes of Carson Grimes, a 69-year-old serial paedophile currently serving a minimum of 22 years and nine months in prison. Grimes preyed upon vulnerable young people in Luton, Bedfordshire, by luring them to his home with offers of friendship, then plying them with alcohol and drugs before subjecting them to sexual abuse.
Investigating Historic Abuse
The second episode, titled 24 Hours in Police Custody: Burying Horror, follows Bedfordshire Police's rape and serious sexual offences team as they investigate historic abuse allegations. Detectives re-examine Grimes's case after his former neighbour reported discovering large bones in her garden, adjacent to the property where the abuse occurred.
This new investigation revealed that some victims had suffered in silence for up to 30 years, with detectives uncovering evidence that Grimes may have been manipulating victims from prison to prevent them from testifying. The episode provides an inside look at the police work, including victim interviews and forensic examinations.
Impact on Victims and Community
The documentary features emotional testimonies from Grimes's victims, who describe the lasting trauma of his actions. One victim, Michael, expresses a desire to confront Grimes in court, stating, I want to look him in the eye to let him know that he hasn’t got away with it. Another victim, Patrick, shares his struggle with self-blame and the decision to come forward after 38 years.
Detective Inspector Clare Gilbert, who leads the investigation, compares Grimes to Jimmy Savile, noting his ability to abuse under everyone's nose without suspicion. She emphasises that Grimes shows no remorse and is unlikely to engage in rehabilitation programmes.
Police and Judicial Response
Detective Chief Superintendent Zara Brown, head of Bedfordshire Police's crime and public protection unit, describes Grimes as one of the most depraved predators the force has encountered. She highlights the long-term emotional and psychological harm inflicted on victims, affecting their relationships, mental health, and overall lives.
At Grimes's sentencing hearing, the judge expressed hope that he would never see freedom again, underscoring the severity of his crimes. The police continue to pursue justice for additional victims who have bravely come forward, even after Grimes received a life sentence.
Schedule Details and Viewer Advisory
24 Hours In Police Custody: Horror House continues tonight at 9pm on Channel 4, following its move to Monday. The episode will be followed by the true crime programme 999: What Happened Next. Viewers are advised that the content includes graphic descriptions of sexual abuse and may be distressing.
The series, which has aired since 2014, typically follows Bedfordshire Police detectives as they investigate serious offences, from murder to rape, offering a behind-the-scenes look at criminal investigations and their impact on communities.
