TV Psychic John Starkey Admits Sexual Assault Charges, Warned of Jail Term
A television psychic who claims appearances on ITV's This Morning and other major broadcasters is facing a significant prison sentence after admitting to sexually assaulting two women during clairvoyant consultations. John Starkey, 74, dramatically changed his pleas at Mold Crown Court in North Wales, confessing to three charges of sexual assault that date back to incidents between 2018 and 2022.
Court Proceedings and Judicial Warning
Judge Rhys Rowlands adjourned sentencing until next month but delivered a stern warning to Starkey, who also claims to have appeared on LK Today, GMTV, The Paul O'Grady Show, and LBC Radio. The judge emphasized the severity of the case, stating that an immediate custodial sentence appears inevitable. Although ordering a pre-sentence report, Judge Rowlands cautioned Starkey not to misinterpret this as leniency, while granting bail with the immediate requirement to sign the Sex Offenders' Register.
Details of the Assaults and Investigation
Prosecutor Elen Owen outlined the disturbing case, revealing that Starkey was first investigated in 2018 after a woman reported a sexual assault in Wolverhampton. Several months later, he tricked the same victim into attending a supposed client meeting at a London hotel room, where she found herself alone with him and was assaulted under the guise of an 'initiation.' Despite being questioned about both attacks, Starkey denied wrongdoing, and no charges were initially brought.
The investigation was reopened in 2022 when a young woman on holiday in Llandudno reported being sexually assaulted during a clairvoyant consultation at Starkey's shop. This complaint prompted police to re-examine the earlier allegations, leading to the discovery of Starkey's DNA on underwear seized from his first victim. The more recent incident involved Starkey offering a naked massage and smacking the woman's backside during what was supposed to be a professional session.
Starkey's Background and Professional Claims
John Starkey describes himself as an 'internationally renowned clairvoyant' with four decades of experience, operating from a shop in the seaside resort of Llandudno, North Wales. His online presence boasts appearances on various television and radio programs, including ITV's This Morning, LK Today, GMTV, The Paul O'Grady Show, LBC Radio in London, and Beacon Radio in the West Midlands. He offers multiple services such as face-to-face, telephone, or group readings, tarot card and palm readings, and clairvoyant sessions at workshops and corporate events.
According to his website, Starkey promotes clairvoyance as a tool to help individuals cope with loss and life's troubles, claiming it can assist in forging new pathways and directions. However, these professional claims now stand in stark contrast to his criminal admissions.
Legal Charges and Defense Strategy
Starkey pleaded guilty to specific charges including sexual assault by penetration between April 1, 2018, and October 1, 2018, plus two counts of sexual assault by touching on December 14, 2018, and October 25, 2022. Defense attorney Andrew Jebb indicated plans to seek a comprehensive medical report on his client ahead of the sentencing hearing scheduled for next month. The case highlights serious breaches of trust within the psychic services industry, with Starkey's actions betraying the vulnerable positions of his clients during supposed spiritual consultations.
