A MAN who infected his girlfriend with HIV after denying he had the virus may have had sexual relations with other unsuspecting women in the resort, detectives believe.

The 35-year-old, who the Daily Echo has been banned from identifying, admitted causing grievous bodily harm to his partner, who also cannot be named for legal reasons.

Bournemouth magistrates heard how the man had formed a relationship with his victim, a former work colleague, in May 2006. Before having sex, Miss A asked if he had any sexually transmitted infections and he replied "no".

Later she asked him to take an HIV test and he told her the hospital had lost his results. Miss A finally agreed to have unprotected sex after "his constant pressure and reassurance" he was negative, the court was told.

Her suspicions continued and she ended the relationship in July. A few days later she received a bogus text message, purporting to be from the Royal Bournemouth Hospital, stating her former partner's test results were negative. When she confronted the man again he denied having HIV. It was only after she was diagnosed as HIV positive he admitted having it.

Magistrates heard how Miss A contacted the police after finding paperwork confirming that her ex-boyfriend was diagnosed HIV positive in October 2000. During interview he admitted failing to tell Miss A about his condition but maintained they had never had unprotected sex.

Defending, Robert Grey, said: "We concede someone with the condition this defendant has, who has had a sexual relationship with a lady over several months and not told her about his condition, is dangerous."

Judge Roger Jarvis adjourned sentencing for reports and remanded the man in custody.

After the hearing, Det Sgt Phil Swanton from Bournemouth CID said: "His victim has to live with the consequences of HIV for the rest of her life. The defendant was fully aware of the consequences and restrictions on his lifestyle.

"Miss A took every reasonable step to protect herself. From the outset he went to great lengths to deceive her.

"We believe she may not be alone. He had lived in Bournemouth, on and off, for several years and had physical relations with other women. Anyone who suspects they may have been exposed to this danger should contact us."

A spokesman for the Crown Prosecution Service said: "This conviction sends out a message to people with HIV that these matters are taken seriously as they have a huge impact on other people's lives. Failing to act responsibly for other people's wellbeing, and not telling them when they are at risk, is a criminal offence and they will be prosecuted".

  • If you have any concerns about this story you should contact detectives on 01202 222222.