Reggae Musician King Bootielero Denies Rape & Sexual Assault Charges Involving Four Girls At Wood Green Crown Court

A reggae musician has pleaded not guilty to a series of historic sexual offences involving four young girls at a hearing before Wood Green Crown Court.

Byron Broderick, 58, of Arncliffe Close, Barnet, denied three counts of rape and two counts of sexual assault of a girl under 13 by touching when he appeared via video-link on Thursday.

The criminal allegations span a 12-year period between 2005 and 2017, relating to four separate complainants who were aged between eight and 16 at the time of the alleged offences.

Broderick, a prolific reggae artist originally from St Mary, Jamaica, who performs under the stage name King Bootielero, was remanded in custody ahead of a scheduled ten-day trial.

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The Metropolitan Police launched an investigation into the defendant in June 2025 after a woman, now in her 20s, came forward to report non-recent allegations to the authorities.

Following the police inquiry, Broderick was arrested and subsequently charged on Wednesday, 15 April, before making an initial appearance at Stratford Magistrates’ Court, where he was remanded in custody.

During the plea and trial preparation hearing at Wood Green Crown Court, the defence raised procedural considerations regarding the scheduled length of the upcoming trial.

Katie Mustard, defending, informed the court that the proceedings might exceed the estimated ten days due to potential communication difficulties during the presentation of evidence.

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Addressing the court on the issue, Mustard said: "There are potential issues understanding his accent."

Judge Timothy Walker fixed the trial date for early next year, confirming that the defendant would remain in custody until the proceedings commence.

Judge Walker told the defendant: "You have pleaded not guilty to these matters. Your trial will take place on 4 January next year. That is the earliest date that the court could accommodate."

The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that their investigation into the matter is still active and have appealed for any further individuals with relevant information to contact the force.

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Detective Constable Liam Levy, the officer leading the investigation, said: "It takes a significant amount of bravery to come forward and report allegations of a sexual nature. We are continuing to support the women who have come forward. Our investigation remains open and we'd encourage anyone who has been impacted by this case, or anyone with information, to come forward and speak with us. All information will be dealt with in the strictest confidence."