Man found guilty of sex offences with teenage boys

A man has been convicted today (12 April), after being found guilty of sexual offences against two boys after a three-week trial at Kingston Crown Court.

Julius Edwards, 49, formerly of Queens Road, Farnborough, was charged with the offences, which took place between March and April 2020 against the two victims, who were aged 13 and 14 at the time, in May 2020.

Edwards, who has since changed his name by deed poll to James Edward Ramsay, pleaded guilty to one count of attempted sexual communication with a child at an earlier hearing.

He was convicted today of a further 18 offences, including 11 counts of sexual activity with a child; one count of assault by penetration; three counts of attempted penetrative sexual activity with a child; and two counts of failure to comply with a notice to provide a key, bringing the total number of charges to 19.

Ramsay’s offending first came to light when police were investigating another matter in relation to one of the victims, and concerns were raised that the victim was potentially being groomed by Ramsay.

The victim was further interviewed and made allegations of contact and online sexual offences against him by Ramsay.

During the interview, the victim mentioned Ramsay had bragged about relationships he had had with other underage boys. 

Further enquiries were carried out and the second victim was identified, who also said he had been sexually abused by Ramsay.

During this investigation, the Metropolitan Police contacted the investigating officer to notify him that Ramsay had been linked to an investigation of sexual communication with a child (online), involving an undercover online officer posing as a 13-year-old boy.

Ramsay was a teacher at the Dove House School in Basingstoke at the time of his arrest but neither of the victims were pupils at the school.

Detective Constable Mike Stanley, who investigated the case, said: “Ramsay is a sexual predator with a dangerous interest in young teenage boys.  

“The investigation has shown clearly that Ramsay is manipulative in seeking out children and in covering his actions.

“I would like to pay tribute to the victims who came forward and were brave enough to give evidence and re-live the ordeal they suffered at the hands of Ramsay in court.

“This was a thorough and protracted investigation and one which demonstrates that when we become aware of any allegations of sexual abuse, we will always take them seriously and ensure that they are fully investigated."

Please contact us via 101, webchat on our website, or online - https://www.surrey.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/

Alternatively, if you do not wish to leave your name, please call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

For more information and support please visit: https://www.surrey.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault/