A retired senior officer from Thames Valley Police has confirmed that organised groups targeting vulnerable young people for sexual exploitation almost certainly continue to operate within Oxford.
Simon Morton, who previously served as acting detective chief inspector, featured in a BBC Panorama documentary examining Operation Bullfinch and the shortcomings of both Thames Valley Police and Oxfordshire County Council in safeguarding those affected.
According to Morton, the exploitation of children that occurred in Oxford represented a phenomenon that authorities failed to comprehend adequately.
Official documentation from social services reportedly characterised the victims as individuals making poor lifestyle choices.
The broadcaster’s investigation disclosed that Thames Valley Police received initial reports concerning these criminal networks in 2006.
A formal investigation was not initiated until five years later, in 2011.
When asked how the force could justify remaining unaware of the groups despite girls having come forward with information, Morton acknowledged that both police and social services fell short in their response.
One of the women who participated in the documentary recounted observing officers celebrating at the Old Bailey following the convictions of the men responsible.
Morton described the outcome as a significant achievement, noting that securing convictions after an extended process represented a considerable accomplishment for those involved in the investigation.
The former officer further indicated that numerous individuals may remain within such criminal networks throughout Oxfordshire and neighbouring regions.
He characterised the scale of offending over the preceding decade as substantial, with participants travelling from considerable distances to engage in these activities.
When pressed regarding whether such exploitation groups continue to function in Oxford, Morton responded affirmatively, stating that while the primary offenders had been prosecuted, the existence of additional perpetrators could not be ruled out.
The investigation also examined allegations that one victim had been subjected to inappropriate conduct when reporting the groups to authorities.
Thames Valley Police responded that they had received no notification regarding this matter at the time and emphasised that all personnel are required to uphold rigorous standards of professional conduct.
Assistant Chief Constable Darren O’Callaghan addressed the documentary’s findings, acknowledging the lasting impact of child sexual abuse on those affected.
He noted that the women had demonstrated considerable courage in sharing their accounts and recognised the profound harm caused over many years.
O’Callaghan stated that the force remained committed to listening to and supporting individuals who had experienced abuse, pledging that those who report such crimes would be treated with respect and taken seriously.
He assured that all information provided would be thoroughly investigated and that efforts would be made to pursue those responsible while ensuring appropriate support throughout the process.
The force clarified that Morton’s comments reflected his personal perspective and did not represent the official position of Thames Valley Police.