A former Special Constable(currently suspended) with the Metropolitan Police, Gwyn Samuels, has been convicted of raping a 12-year-old child following a trial at Aylesbury Crown Court. Samuels, who was previously known as James Bubb, was found guilty of multiple sexual offences committed over several years.
The 27-year-old abused the young victim across London and Chesham, with the crimes starting when the child was just 12 years old.
In addition, Samuels also faced charges related to a second victim, a young woman who was 18 when the abuse began, continuing over a five-year period from 2018 to 2023.
Both victims identified their attacker as James Bubb, a name Samuels used at the time. During the investigation, Samuels changed his name to Gwyn Samuels and now identifies as a transgender woman.
The court heard that Samuels met both victims through online platforms, including the website Omegle and the messaging app Kik. At the time of the offences, Samuels was serving as a Special Constable in the Metropolitan Police.
This volunteer position granted him the same powers, uniform, and equipment as a regular police officer. He has since been suspended from his duties.
Detective Constable Kirsty Pendle, who led the investigation for Thames Valley Police, described Samuels as a “dangerous, predatory sex offender”.
She expressed her satisfaction with the conviction, noting the significant impact of the crimes on the victims.
“The abuse endured by the victims was horrific. I want to commend their bravery in coming forward and reporting these crimes. Their strength throughout this investigation and the court process has been remarkable.
This case serves as a clear reminder that Thames Valley Police takes reports of sexual offences extremely seriously,” Pendle said.
Pendle also urged anyone with further information about Samuels to come forward, noting that the investigation remains open to potential additional victims or offences.
“We are keeping an open mind about whether there may be more crimes that the defendant committed. If anyone has relevant information, we encourage them to get in touch with us,” she added.
Charges and Court Verdict
Samuels was convicted of the following charges related to the first victim:
- One count of assault of a child under 13 by penetration
- One count of rape of a child under 13
- One count of sexual activity with a child
- One count of assault by penetration
- One count of rape (against the second victim)
In relation to the second victim, he was convicted of one count of rape. However, the jury acquitted Samuels of one charge of rape and one charge of sexual activity with a child, both in relation to the first victim.
Sentencing to Take Place in December
Samuels will be sentenced on December 19 at Aylesbury Crown Court. His conviction has raised concerns about the vetting process for police officers, especially those in volunteer roles, and has highlighted the need for rigorous checks to prevent such betrayals of public trust.
Support for Victims and Reporting Information
Thames Valley Police continue to offer support for anyone affected by similar crimes. If you or someone you know has been impacted by sexual abuse or has information relating to this case, you are encouraged to contact the police.
Anyone with information can reach out by visiting a local police station, calling 101, or leaving details via the official website.
