Violinist Ben Gunnery sent hundreds of nude images to women

Ben Gunnery, a violinist with a global performing career, has been sentenced to a 12-month suspended prison term following his conviction for sending explicit images of himself to two women he had never met. The offenses occurred in November, just months after Gunnery was found guilty of similar actions involving another woman. His misconduct involved finding victims online and rapidly dispatching unsolicited and sexually explicit photographs and videos.

Originally from Vauxhall, London, Gunnery acknowledged his actions, admitting that he sent images of his erect penis and masturbation videos intending to cause distress and humiliation. During his hearing at Bromley Magistrates’ Court, Gunnery’s defense attorneys stated that his offenses coincided with periods of drug use and expressed his remorse, emphasizing the severe consequences he now faces, including loss of employment and damage to his reputation. “He’s seen a complete devastation of his career. He can’t get work, his reputation is damaged. He’s on benefits,” they explained.

Judge Vanessa Lloyd addressed Gunnery directly, highlighting the intentional nature of his crimes despite his drug use. She remarked, “They’re deliberate acts. It’s not the drugs speaking, they bring out something in you,” and pointed out that the behavior was repeated and not solely linked to substance influence. Gunnery received a two-year suspended sentence and was ordered to comply with drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs. Additionally, as part of his sentence, he must adhere to a 10-year notification requirement on the sex offenders register and comply with a five-year sexual harm prevention order, limiting him to ownership of only one mobile phone and internet-enabled device. The judge warned, “Breaching any of the orders is a one-way ticket to immediate imprisonment. It’s up to you.”

The impact of Gunnery’s actions on his victims has been profound. One victim, referred to as Kate, a musician from Glasgow, reported severe emotional distress including insomnia, loss of appetite, and PTSD flashbacks linked to prior trauma. She described the behavior as “wholly inappropriate, unacceptable, illegal, invasive, unwanted, unprompted and a complete abuse of power as a male musician towards a female musician.” Following the incidents, Gunnery was placed under a two-year restraining order concerning Kate and received a six-month suspended sentence with rehabilitation requirements related to offenses against her. Kate’s husband, also a musician, expressed outrage over Gunnery’s conduct, and Kate herself continues to attend therapy, reporting ongoing feelings of unsafety and anxiety, especially while performing.

Anna Downes from Worcestershire was the first to come forward and speak publicly about receiving unsolicited images from Gunnery, describing her experience as horrific and deeply violating. She recounted difficulties in sleeping and the recurring distress caused by the unwanted images. Detective Inspector KP Pender commended all victims for their bravery in reporting the crimes, stating their cooperation was essential to securing justice.

Before his arrest, Gunn

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