Understand
Peterborough man and former cadet leader on trial for multiple sexual offences
Overview
Rylan Ray, an Army Cadets instructor and former Peterborough City Council councillor, is on trial at Ipswich Crown Court facing 25 sexual offences involving children and teenagers. The jury heard allegations that he touched a teenager's genitalia, sent explicit photos, and encouraged a boy to share nude images. Ray denies all charges.
Key points
- Rylan Ray, 26, is on trial at Ipswich Crown Court facing 25 sexual offences involving children.
- The charges include one count of rape, four of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and three of making indecent images of children.
- A complainant alleged that Ray touched his genitalia with his foot, sent a photo of his penis, and told him 'there's a bit of gay in everyone'.
- Another teenager testified that Ray contacted him on social media and suggested he show his genitalia.
- The alleged offences span a six-year period and involve 11 male complainants, many of whom were cadets.
- Ray served as a Peterborough City Council councillor from 2022 until May 2026 and denies the charges against him.