HAMPSHIRE Police today admitted they missed several opportunities to prosecute Rex Case.

Detective Chief Inspector Bob Maker, in charge of the force’s western area public protection unit, said an investigation carried out with Southampton Social Services was not as thorough as it should have been – but acknowledged that would be little comfort to his victims.

In a statement to the Daily Echo DCI Maker said: “On reviewing the history of this case it is clear that there were several opportunities that could have led to an earlier prosecution of Rex Case.

“In some instances investigations were not pursued due to victims deciding not to support a prosecution and in one case in 1999 the investigation carried out jointly between police and Southampton Social Services was not as thorough or robust as it should have been.

“There were no new placements made with the Case family after 1999 as a result of an independent review on their suitability as foster carers which was commissioned by Southampton children’s services.

He added: “I am confident that these issues have now been addressed and the way we work has changed dramatically since 1999, although I accept that this is clearly little consolation for the victims of this offender.

“The joint investigative procedures and dedicated child abuse investigation teams across Hampshire today ensure a far higher standard of investigation than that shown in the 1999 case.

“This has been demonstrated by the outstanding work undertaken by all involved in bringing this investigation to court, which has led to Rex Case being brought to justice.

“On receiving an individual allegation in 2010 a thorough investigation by the public protection team in conjunction with Southampton children’s services led to the discovery of several other vulnerable victims who were willing to support the investigation and jointly their evidence led to the charging of Case for a series of sexual offences against children.”

DCI Maker added: “This has been a long and protracted investigation that has been carried out by highly committed and professional police officers and staff.

“We are pleased we have been able to bring the case to court and get justice for the victims, who can now move forward knowing that this man has been brought to account for his dreadful actions.

“We would like to thank all the victims for their bravery in agreeing to give evidence, which has not been easy for them, but it is the strength of their combined evidence that has brought Rex Case to justice.”