A 64-year-old man has been found guilty of sexual offences against a teenage girl following a four-day jury trial.
Graham Tudgay, previously of Avening Street, Gorse Hill, was found guilty on Wednesday, 12 August, of sexual assault and causing or inciting a girl aged between 13 and 15 to engage in sexual activity.
Tudgay was bailed ahead of sentencing, which is due to take place on 28 September.
The offences took place on 24 February 2024, when Tudgay sexually assaulted a teenage girl known to him while a second teenage girl was also present.
The victim had been at Tudgay’s address before leaving the property. The incident was subsequently reported to police and Tudgay was arrested.
During his first police interview, Tudgay denied that any sexual activity had taken place. He continued to deny the allegations during a second interview, despite being presented with forensic evidence.
He was later charged with the offences and pleaded not guilty, meaning the case proceeded to trial.
After hearing the evidence over four days, a jury found Tudgay guilty of all the offences.
DC Melanie Reeves, from Wiltshire Police’s Child Abuse Investigation Team, praised the victim and witness for their courage in giving evidence and continuing with the case.
She said the offences had had a significant impact on those involved and described the crimes as “absolutely vile”.
She added that the victim and witness should have been able to feel safe in Tudgay’s presence, but instead the offences took place while the second girl was nearby.
DC Reeves also said she hoped the case would reassure victims that they will be listened to when they report sexual offences.
Tudgay remains on bail until his sentencing on 28 September.
