Sex abuser of teenager is jailed after 20 years
BATTLE FOR JUSTICE AS PREDATOR LOCKED UP
A PAEDOPHILE who abused a teenage girl has been jailed after his brave victim reported his vile crime over 20 years later.
Robert Jones subjected his victim to two instances of sexual abuse when he was in his 20s. Now aged 44, he has been put behind bars after the brave survivor spoke out against her abuser in 2021 and an investigation was launched by police.
Jones was arrested on the same night but denied the allegations put to him.
But in 2022, he was charged with two offences of gross indecency with a child and indecent assault on a child – being that the offences took place before the Sexual Offences Act was introduced in 2003.
He continued to deny the allegations, but earlier this year, a jury at Newcastle Crown Court saw through his lies and he was convicted of both offences.
And on Tuesday (May 7), Jones, of Berechurch Road, Colchester, Essex, was handed a three-and-a-half-year sentence behind bars at the same court.
He was also given a life-long order to sign the Sex Offenders Register, a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and restraining order.
Following the sentencing, Northumbria Police specialist officers assured victims that “no matter how much time has passed, we’re here for you”.
Detective Constable Andrea Nixon, who led the investigation, praised the bravery of the victim for speaking out and hoped it will encourage others thinking of coming forward to report sexual abuse.
Det Con Nixon said: “The outcome of this case sends a clear message – it’s never too late to seek justice, and it is possible to hold your abuser to account years, even decades, after the crimes have been committed.
“It also should be taken as a clear warning to anyone who thinks they’ve gotten away with committing non-recent abuse – we can and will find you, and your crimes will be pursued regardless of how much time has passed.
“The victim in this case has lived their entire adult life battling with what they suffered as a child, but now her voice has been fully heard. She is the most important person in this case and I’m proud to have helped her on her journey for justice. Please report to us and give us the opportunity to support you through this process.”
Anyone who is a victim of any sexual offending should contact police via the ‘Report’ pages on the Northumbria Police website or contact 101.