The bravery of a victim who came forward and spoke with police has led to a man being sentenced for indecent assault committed three decades ago.
On 21 April 2020, detectives received allegations of non-recent sexual abuse said to have taken place in the Camden area in the 1990s.
The victim-survivor, who was 17 years old at the time he was assaulted, informed officers that he met Reginald Dunkling – who was working as a priest – at his local church.
Detectives from the Specialist Crime Command immediately launched an investigation.
Having taken a full account from the victim-survivor, Dunkling was arrested on 16 June 2020 before being released on bail.
Detectives continued to make enquiries in order to build as strong a case as possible against him. On 9 September 2021, having completed their investigation, detectives charged Dunkling with indecent assault.
Detective Constable Lucy Dugdale, the investigating officer, said: “Today’s sentencing shows that we will always take this type of offending seriously, irrespective of how many years have passed. I would like to praise the victim for finding the courage to contact police; after 30 years, his voice has been heard.
“Dunkling used his status within the community to target a teenager who he then assaulted. He abused his position of trust which is wholly unacceptable.
“I would encourage anyone who has been the victim of a sexual assault to speak with police, or any of the charities or organisations that are available, so that they can get the support they need.”
Reginald Dunkling, 61 (24.01.62) of no fixed address was sentenced at Wood Green Crown Court on Friday, 1 December to a 12 month community order with two requirements, a curfew for three months and a 25 hours’ rehabilitation activity requirement.
He had previously been found guilty of indecent assault on Thursday, 6 July.
+ Our website contains details of organisations that can help via: www.met.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault/support-for-victims-of-rape-and-sexual-assault/
