A man who lured a vulnerable girl to Jersey has been found guilty of rape and people trafficking after a six-day Royal Court trial.

Shay John Edward Bester (47) was arrested in November 2021 after his victim reported that she had been physically and sexually assaulted.

Bester had groomed the teenager online over a period of time before arranging for her to travel to the island and stay with him. 

She was abused over several days before disclosing her ordeal to police. 

Following his arrest, and whilst under investigation, Bester texted his victim from another phone pretending to be a police officer.

Following today’s conviction, Detective Constable Charles Vibert said the victim and her family have been on a 'challenging journey'.

"Shay Bester is a sexual predator, who targeted a vulnerable young female, in order that he could fulfil his own sexual fantasies. 

 I hope that today’s guilty verdict will offer the victim and her family a degree of closure which will help them to rebuild their lives."

Bester has been convicted of:

• 1 count of people trafficking
• 2 counts of rape
• 1 count of sexual assault
• 3 counts of assault 
• 1 count of impersonation of a police officer

He will be sentenced later this year.

Advice and support for victims of sexual and domestic abuse

The SARC at Dewberry House provides expert independent and confidential support to victims of sexual abuse. The Centre comprises of a team of experts with a wealth of knowledge and experience in advising, supporting and treating anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted. They can be reached on 01534 888222.

Jersey Domestic Abuse Support (JDAS) protect and support victims of domestic and sexual abuse. Their qualified Independent Domestic Violence Advisors provide support and advice to develop long-term safety solutions for men, women and their families. They can be reached on 01534 880505.