Who is Barry George? From infamous murder acquittal to new rape charges
Barry George faces rape and assault charges from 1987. Image Credit: PA Media
Barry George, the man once at the center of Britain’s most high-profile murder trial, is back in the headlines. The 65-year-old, who was jailed and later cleared of murdering BBC presenter Jill Dando, has been charged with rape and two counts of indecent assault dating back almost four decades.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed the charges, alleging that a 14-year-old girl was sexually assaulted on two separate occasions in west London between 6 and 12 September 1987.
Historic Allegations Resurface
According to police, the complainant, now in her 50s, came forward after nearly 40 years. Following an investigation by a specialist team, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) authorized charges against George.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy said:
“These charges follow an investigation by a team of Met detectives. Specially trained officers continue to support the woman who has come forward.”
George has been requisitioned to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 29 October.
From Jill Dando’s Murder to Acquittal
Barry George first became a household name after being accused of killing Jill Dando, one of the BBC’s most popular presenters, in April 1999. Dando was shot dead on the doorstep of her Fulham home, a crime that shocked the nation.
George was convicted in 2001, but his conviction was quashed in 2007 after an appeal court ruled the verdict unsafe. At a retrial in 2008, he was unanimously acquitted. The case remains unsolved to this day, and George has always denied involvement in Dando’s death.
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CPS Statement on the Charges
Lionel Idan, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London South, emphasized the legal process:
“Having carefully reviewed a file of evidence, the CPS has taken the decision to prosecute Barry George, 65, on charges of rape and indecent assault. These relate to non-recent allegations that took place in 1987 against a woman who was a teenager at the time. We remind all concerned that proceedings are active and the suspect has a right to a fair trial.”
What Happens Next?
George’s first court appearance is scheduled for October 29 at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. Legal experts suggest the case could draw major media attention, given his controversial past and the still-unsolved Jill Dando murder.
The allegations, though historical, will reopen public debate about George’s life, his notoriety, and the shadow cast by the Dando case.
FAQ
Who is Barry George?
Barry George is a 65-year-old man who became widely known after being convicted, then acquitted, of the murder of BBC presenter Jill Dando in 1999. He now lives in County Cork, Ireland.
What has Barry George been charged with?
In September 2025, George was charged with one count of rape and two counts of indecent assault relating to allegations from 1987 involving a 14-year-old girl in west London.
When did the alleged offences take place?
Police allege the assaults happened between 6 and 12 September 1987.
Who is the complainant in the Barry George case?
The complainant, who was 14 at the time of the alleged offences, is now in her 50s. Her identity has not been disclosed for legal reasons.
Has Barry George been convicted before?
Yes. George was convicted in 2001 of murdering Jill Dando but that conviction was overturned in 2007. At a retrial in 2008, he was acquitted and released from prison.
Is Barry George guilty of Jill Dando’s murder?
No. He was acquitted in 2008 after an appeal and retrial. The Jill Dando murder case remains unsolved.
Where is Barry George now?
George resides in County Cork, Ireland. He has kept a low profile since his release but occasionally appears in media coverage tied to the Jill Dando case.
When is Barry George’s next court date?
Barry George is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 29 October 2025.
What did the CPS say about Barry George’s charges?
The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed that after reviewing evidence, they have authorized charges against George. They emphasized his right to a fair trial and cautioned against prejudicial commentary.
Why is Barry George’s case significant?
The charges against George revive public interest in a figure tied to one of Britain’s most infamous unsolved murders. His past wrongful conviction and acquittal add layers of controversy and public scrutiny to the new allegations.