Historical sex crimes alleged

Masterton police arrested Godfrey Ball, aka Geoffrey Ball, this week and charged him with sexual offences against boys between 1964 and 1985 while living in Wellington.

A 78-year-old Masterton man has been charged with historical sexual offending.

Masterton police arrested Godfrey Ball, aka Geoffrey Ball, this week and charged him with sexual offences against boys between 1964 and 1985 while living in Wellington.

The former school bus driver and Scout master appeared in the Masterton District Court on Tuesday facing 12 representative charges including indecent assault and doing an indecent act.

Police allege Ball indecently assaulted three victims aged between 7 and 16 years old during the period of the alleged offending and say there may be more victims.

"This matter is being thoroughly investigated and a number of search warrants has been executed today [Wednesday]," said Detective Damian Doocey of the Masterton Child Protection Team.

"Our concern is that there may be other victims who we are yet to identify and we could encourage anybody with concerns to make contact with police."

He said inquiries established Ball allegedly used his position as a school bus driver and local Scout master to be in contact with the alleged victims and there might be people who remembered important information that could assist police.

Ball was remanded in custody to appear in court again on June 23 when a bail application would be heard.

Anyone who has concerns is asked to contact the Masterton police Child Protection Team on 06 370 0309 or visit a local police station.