More victims of child sex abuse found

Neighbours discovered the body of former scoutmaster and school bus driver Godfrey (aka Geoffrey) Ball in his Waterhouse St home last week.

More than a dozen people have been identified as possible sex abuse victims of a Masterton man found dead in house last week, police say.

Former scoutmaster and school bus driver Godfrey (aka Geoffrey) Ball was found dead in his Waterhouse St home last week by neighbours.

He was facing 12 representative charges of sexually abusing four boys aged between 7 and under 16 years old during a period between 1964 and 1985 in Wellington. Ball was due back in court on September 17 to plead to the charges.

Neighbours have come forward stating Ball was afraid of going to prison.

Police investigating charges relating to a further 10 possible victims say they have received a significant response from the public, with a further 14 victims identified as possible victims of Ball's abuse.

Investigating officer Detective Damian Doocey said with Ball's death, they were working through the next process of the investigation.

Meanwhile, victims notified of the death had reacted differently; some had little to say while others were left dismayed at the news, Mr Doocey said.

"When the victims were first advised of his death, some had little to say as they were trying to understand what this meant for them. Others have expressed shock as they wanted to see him held accountable in court."

The victims are being supported.

"We are ensuring that support is in place for those already in contact with police ... we are continuing to provide whatever support we can to help them as they come to terms what has now occurred."

Police encourage anyone with any concerns to make contact so support and advice can be provided to them by calling (06) 370 0300.