"We have no sympathy for you"

Thursday 14 November 2019

A 75-year-old has been given 14 years behind bars after being found guilty of 10 sexual offences, all of which involved children and teenagers.

Roger Robinson initially pleaded not guilty to all of the counts - including one of rape - but, after a week-long trial last month, Jurats unanimously agreed his guilt.

The convictions span four decades, with some dating back to the 1970s while others were more recent.

Four female victims eventually came forward and gave evidence. The identity of these complainants has been protected by law.

Ahead of his sentencing, Robinson's defence Advocate Paul Lockwood asked that Judge Russell Finch and the eight Jurats consider the defendant's ill health and age before coming to a decision. Robinson has been diagnosed with the early stages of vascular dementia, which affects his memory and can cause black outs.

"The prospect of a prisoner in a cell not knowing or understanding why he is there is not ideal," said Advocate Lockwood.

Pictured: The trial was heard by Guernsey's Royal Court. 

He also explained how Robinson "does not have an extensive set of prior convictions", with one minor public order count for disorderly behaviour.

On sentencing, Judge Finch explained how there had been a number of aggravating factors to the case, including the young ages of the victims and, in some cases, repeated assaults. He also mentioned the "nasty effects this sort of offence has on victims".

"You pose a risk of harm of a sexual nature to pubescent and prepubescent girls," he said. "We note the healthcare concerns, but there is little if any mitigation to set aside the heavy aggravating factors in this case. We have no sympathy for you. Young people are entitled to be protected."

Pictured: Robinson was sentenced to 14 years in Les Nicolles despite his age. 

Robinson's 14 year prison sentence will run from when he was first retained in custody on 14 October 2019.

He also faces an extended sentence of five years, which he will have to serve if he does not comply with specific requirements. They include not committing any further offences, keeping in touch with a supervising officer and advising them of any changes in address or work, not leaving the island without prior permission and not having any contact with girls under the age of 18.

Robinson has been given an 18 year notification requirement, during which time he will have to report to the police with all official personal details and changes.

 Judge Finch concluded the hearing by commending all four victims for their "courage in coming forward".

Pictured top: Roger Robinson.