A respected 77-year-old 'spiritual healer' raped a woman after telling her that having sex would rid her of an evil spirit.
Bernard Williams, 77, convinced the woman that this 'demon' would eventually kill her after she visited his holistic healing shop in Brixton, South London, seeking help for feeling unwell.
Over several months starting in November 2020, Williams claimed to have 'healing powers' and sold her items such as a protective ring and a healing bath, charging her up to £13,000.
In January 2021, he went to her home, claiming she needed to be 'anointed with oil' through sex to remove the spirit, and then sexually assaulted and raped her.
Williams, known as 'Baba B', was regarded as a 'sheikh' and had a prominent reputation in Brixton, having owned and run his shop there for at least 30 years.
On Friday, he was sentenced to nine years in prison and placed on the sex offenders register for life. In May, he was found guilty of one count of rape and two counts of sexual assault.
The Metropolitan Police fear he may have used his position to abuse other women and have urged any additional victims to come forward.
He was also known to visit clients' homes. His shop, which sold products from the US and Haiti, was located on Market Row in Brixton.
Detective Inspector Tom Palmer, who led the investigation, said: 'Williams' actions are shocking. He exploited the victim's trust, built on the respect he had in the community, to get close to her and commit these crimes.'
He added: 'Given the number of clients Baba B may have helped, his standing in the community over 30 years, and his distinctive methods, we are concerned there may be other victims who have not yet come forward.'
He concluded: 'I encourage anyone who has been affected to contact us if they feel able — you will be listened to and offered specialist support and guidance, not just from the police but also from charities and independent services.'
