The next episode of Channel 4’s 24 Hours in Police Custody will focus on the victims who came forward years after suffering sexual abuse in Luton, triggering a second investigation into prolific offender Carson Grimes.
The programme, airing on Tuesday at 9pm, revisits the case after further survivors contacted police following widespread media coverage of Grimes’ original conviction. Many had carried the impact of what happened to them for decades before feeling able to speak out.
Grimes, also known as Carson Phillips, was first jailed in October 2021 and handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 22 years for grooming, raping and sexually abusing nine young people at his home in Luton. After that case featured in the media and on 24 Hours in Police Custody, additional victims came forward, leading Bedfordshire Police to launch a fresh investigation.
That second inquiry resulted in Grimes pleading guilty to 24 further charges relating to 13 victims, with offences dating back to 1987. In June last year he was given another life sentence and will now have to serve a minimum of 22 years and nine months before he can be considered for parole.
Detective Chief Superintendent Zara Brown, head of Bedfordshire Police’s Crime and Public Protection Unit, said the scale of harm caused by Grimes would stay with victims for the rest of their lives.
“All the victims have carried the trauma he inflicted on them well into adulthood, with many experiencing long-term emotional and psychological harm,” she said. “Some have struggled with trust, relationships and mental health, and the impact of his actions has shaped their lives in ways that cannot be undone.”
She stressed that many victims do not recognise abuse at the time it is happening, saying: “Victims of sexual abuse or exploitation often don’t realise they are being groomed. They may feel responsible or even believe they agreed to what happened, but that is never the case.
“Sadly, many carry this burden for years before they feel able to speak out. But we want them to know that it is never too late to talk to us or get the support they may need.”
Detective Chief Superintendent Brown said bringing further charges was about justice for those who came forward later, even though Grimes was already facing a lengthy sentence.
“It was important to get justice for the additional victims who showed such bravery in coming forward,” she said.
Bedfordshire Police is encouraging anyone affected by sexual abuse or exploitation, including incidents that happened many years ago, to seek support and report concerns. Advice and information is available through the force and specialist support services, with officers stressing that victims will be listened to and supported throughout the process.
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