ROBERT ARKLIE SENTENCED IN CRAWLEY FOR SEX OFFENCES AGAINST TWO GIRLS FROM CRANLEIGH

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Crawley and Cranleigh, Robert Arklie, a 66-year-old man, has been handed a five-year prison sentence after being convicted of serious sexual offences involving two young girls. The crimes took place over a period spanning from 2004 to 2006, when the victims were between the ages of seven and nine.

Arklie, who was residing at Seaford Road, Broadfield, in Crawley at the time of the offences, was found guilty following a detailed five-day trial at Hove Crown Court. The court heard that he sexually assaulted one girl on two separate occasions, while the other girl was subjected to two counts of sexual assault and one count of sexual penetration. The assaults occurred within the confines of his home, where his wife was acting as a child minder, providing a disturbing context to the abuse.

Following his conviction, Arklie was also ordered to be registered as a sex offender for life upon his release from prison, a measure designed to protect the community and prevent further harm. The case highlights the importance of justice for victims of sexual abuse, regardless of how much time has passed since the offences occurred.

Detective Constable Dani Flude commented on the case, emphasizing the bravery of the victims. She stated, “The victims were very brave to come forward. They had to overcome a very natural human barrier to disclosing what had happened to them, and we ensured they received proper welfare and support so that they could give evidence in court and help ensure that justice was done.”

She further added, “It is another example of the way in which the criminal justice system will support victims of such offences however long ago they happened.”