More than 80 people have said they suffered as inmates at a County Durham centre for young offenders in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Durham Constabulary announced they were launching a fresh investigation into claims young men sent to Medomsley Detention Centre, near Consett were abused by staff.
The unit had a capacity of over 130, but at any one time typically held 70 offenders, mainly from the north. Many were first-time offenders detained for minor crimes.
“We have experienced detectives working on this case including many who are specially-trained to deal with victims of sexual abuse. They will go to see our victims in person, wherever they are, answer any queries they may have.
“Many of those sent to Medomsley were first-time offenders... These days they might be dealt with by issuing a caution, or putting in place a restorative solution designed to keep them out of the criminal justice system.
“We owe it to all the former inmates of the centre to investigate every possible lead and ensure no stone is left unturned.”
– Det Supt Paul GoundryAround 60 detectives have been assigned individual cases. They will take initial statements in a few weeks time.
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