Child sex abuse probe: Survivor claims police 'stood guard' while politician assaulted her
The woman believes that among the people who assaulted her were a politician, a Lord and a judge
Your support helps us to tell the story
As your White House correspondent, I ask the tough questions and seek the answers that matter.
Your support enables me to be in the room, pressing for transparency and accountability. Without your contributions, we wouldn't have the resources to challenge those in power.
Your donation makes it possible for us to keep doing this important work, keeping you informed every step of the way to the November election
Andrew Feinberg
White House Correspondent
A woman has spoken of how uniformed police officers allegedly "stood guard" while a politician sexually assaulted her as a young girl.
Waiving her right to anonymity, Esther Baker, 32, told Sky News that she was abused at various locations by different men in Staffordshire.
She believes that among the people who assaulted her were a politician, a Lord and a judge, and described the political figure as "one of the core members".
"He was in there quite often – I was one of his favourites," she said. "I used to play the piano and he was quite taken with that… there were different houses."
Staffordshire Police Assistant Chief Constable Jon Drake said officers were in the "early stages" of investigating the case and were interviewing Baker.
"We are determined to thoroughly gather any evidence which will allow us to bring those who may have been involved to justice, while taking a sensitive approach to supporting the victim throughout."
Police have investigated 1,433 suspects in their probe into alleged historic child abuse allegations against VIPs, including politicians, celebrities and institutions in Britain.
Operation Hydrant, set up by the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC), revealed the figures last week, among which are 261 people of "public prominence".
Of these figures, 135 are in the television, radio of film industry, 76 were listed as politicians, 43 are from the music industry and seven were involved in sport.
Anyone with concerns about a child or seeking advice can contact the NSPCC for free 24 hours a day, by calling 0808 800 5000, or emailing help@nspcc.org.uk
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.