JAMES ROBERTS FROM DAWLISH ESCAPES JAIL AFTER SEXUAL INCIDENT INVOLVING TEENAGE GIRL IN DEVON

In a case that has drawn significant attention in the Devon area, James Roberts, a 56-year-old man residing on Badlake Hill in Dawlish, was spared imprisonment after being found guilty of engaging in inappropriate sexual conduct with a teenage girl. The incident, which occurred last year, involved Roberts touching and kissing the girl, who was under the age of 16, despite her clear attempts to resist his advances.

The proceedings took place at Exeter Crown Court, where the prosecution, led by David Evans, detailed the disturbing nature of the offense. The victim, whose identity remains protected due to her age, was a minor from Devon. According to the court records, Roberts committed the act of sexual activity with a child by holding her face in his hands and forcibly kissing her on the lips. The court was told that the girl was visibly startled and explicitly told Roberts to stop, but he continued his assault by kissing her on the neck. After initially walking away, Roberts returned and placed his hand on her stomach and on her bra, further alarming the girl and prompting her to again say no.

The girl confided in a school teacher about the incident, which led to a police investigation. The evidence presented in court painted a troubling picture of Roberts’ conduct, which was met with condemnation from the legal authorities.

During the hearing, Roberts’ defense lawyer, Rupert Taylor, highlighted the potential consequences of a prison sentence for his client. He revealed that Roberts held a senior position in his employment, though specific details of his job were not disclosed in court. The defense argued that a prison sentence could result in Roberts losing his job and his home, which would have severe repercussions for his personal life.

Ultimately, Judge John Neligan decided on a sentence that emphasizes supervision and rehabilitation rather than incarceration. Roberts was sentenced to a two-year community order, which requires him to be under the supervision of the probation service for that period. Additionally, he must participate in a sex offender treatment program for a year and attend a course aimed at addressing issues related to alcohol use. Roberts is also mandated to register as a sex offender on the Sex Offender Register for five years, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts of the justice system in Devon to address and prevent sexual offenses involving minors, while also balancing the need for rehabilitation and public safety.