Bernard Williams

Bernard Williams, 77, of Burrells Wharf Square, Greater London, was sentenced to nine years' imprisonment at Harrow Crown Court on 11 July 2025. Following an eight-day trial, Williams was found guilty of one count of rape and two counts of sexual assault.

The court heard that the offences took place on 12 January 2021. Williams, who operated a business in Brixton, exploited his position as a community elder and healer to target a victim who had sought his spiritual guidance. After persuading the victim to pay over £13,000 for various remedies and services, Williams coerced the victim into sexual activity under the false premise that it was required to remove malevolent spirits.

In addition to the nine-year custodial sentence, Williams was placed on the sex offenders' register for life. Metropolitan Police detectives have since indicated they are investigating whether the offender may have exploited other individuals given his long-standing presence in the community.