Co Armagh ‘house of horrors’ couple admit sex crimes against mentally disabled victim

A County Armagh couple will be back in court in December for sentencing after admitting a litany of vile sex offences against a disabled woman spanning an eight-year period.

Keith Baker (60), and his 54-year-old wife, Caroline, originally denied the charges.

But today they changed their pleas at Craigavon Crown Court.

Before the case was called and the judge emerged, the pair had laughed and kissed and embraced each other

The victim, who the court heard has severe learning difficulties, was repeatedly abused at the couple’s home at Drumellen Mews in Craigavon.

An earlier hearing had heard the property described as a “house of horrors”.

None of the facts were outlined during today’s court appearance, but earlier appearances heard that the victim had been held in squalid conditions and subjected to repeated abuse, including rape.

Two charges relating to false imprisonment of the victim were left on the books.

Keith Baker admitted a total of 11 charges including oral and vaginal rape and sexual assault of the woman who was described as being “mentally disabled”.

Caroline Baker admitted seven charges including aiding and abetting her husband to commit rape and one charge of indecent assault.

The charges all related to a period spanning March 2004 until December 2012.

Caroline Baker was released on continuing bail while her husband was returned to Maghaberry Prison.

They are due back in court for sentencing on December 2.