Barry George, once wrongly convicted of the murder of TV presenter Jill Dando, has been charged with raping and indecently assaulting a 14-year-old girl nearly 40 years ago.
The 65-year-old is facing one charge of rape and two charges of indecent assault relating to alleged incidents that occurred in west London between September 6 and 12, 1987. At the time, George would have been in his 20s. The alleged victim, now in her 50s, has been receiving support from specially trained officers.
George previously made headlines after being convicted in 2001 of murdering BBC Crimewatch presenter Jill Dando in 1999. That conviction was quashed in 2008 after a retrial, largely due to doubts over a single particle of gunshot residue being used as evidence. He spent eight years in prison before being acquitted.
Jill Dando was shot on her doorstep in Fulham on April 26, 1999. Despite widespread media coverage and public interest, her killer has never been found. George has always denied involvement and has called for the investigation to be reopened. Other theories have emerged, including possible links to Serbian war crimes and political motives.
After his release, George relocated to Cork, Ireland, in 2010.
Regarding the new charges, Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy of the Metropolitan Police said, “These charges follow an investigation by a team of Met detectives. Specially trained officers continue to support the woman who has come forward.”
Lionel Idan, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London South, confirmed:
“Having carefully reviewed a file of evidence, the Crown Prosecution Service has taken the decision to prosecute Barry George, 65, on charges of rape and two counts of indecent assault. These relate to non-recent allegations that took place in 1987.”
George is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on October 29, 2025.
The CPS also emphasized the importance of preserving the integrity of the legal process, urging the public to avoid any commentary or online discussion that could prejudice the case.
