ROBERT BANTON'S SHOCKING INDECENT EXPOSURE IN COVENTRY AND WARWICK SPARKS OUTRAGE
| Red Rose Database
Coventry Warwick Sexual Abuser
In December 2006, a disturbing incident involving Robert Banton, a man previously residing on Lakin Road in Warwick, has caused widespread concern and outrage among the local communities of Coventry and Warwick. Banton, aged 54 and identified as a businessman, appeared before Coventry Crown Court after pleading guilty to charges of indecent exposure that targeted young girls in a public street setting.
According to court records, the incident took place on September 14 in the area of Yarningale Road, Willenhall. Banton approached three young girls, aged 11 and 12, in a manner that caused alarm and distress. Witnesses reported that Banton pulled down his trousers in front of the children, making a lewd comment, saying, “You like that don’t you girls,” before briefly exposing himself for approximately two seconds. The girls, understandably frightened, fled the scene and sought refuge in a nearby shop.
Further testimony revealed that Banton attempted to physically grab one of the girls during the incident, but all three managed to escape and find safety. A witness who observed the events stated that Banton had been lurking in the vicinity for some time prior to the offence, watching the children and repeatedly entering and exiting his vehicle, raising suspicions about his intentions.
In his defense, Lawrence Watts, representing Banton, argued that the man had already suffered significant consequences as a result of his actions. He pointed out that Banton had lost his home and his business, emphasizing that this was a singular incident. Watts described Banton as having been regarded for many years as a decent man, suggesting that the incident was out of character.
However, Judge Patrick Eccles delivered a stern sentence, acknowledging the remorse Banton had shown but emphasizing the gravity of his actions. The judge stated, “You have gone a significant way towards showing the remorse and shame you should show. These girls were extremely frightened by the experience you subjected them to, and one does not know the extent to which their trust in adults has been damaged.”
The court also heard from the mothers of the three girls, who expressed their devastation and anger over the court’s decision not to impose a custodial sentence. One mother remarked, “Our little girls have lost their innocence and he has lost nothing,” while another added, “As far as I am concerned, he remains a threat to society.”
Detective Simon Hanlon, the officer leading the investigation, commented on the case, saying, “Obviously the families are very upset. We respect the judge’s decision but we are disappointed for the families.”
As part of his sentence, Robert Banton was ordered to complete a 300-hour sex offenders’ program, be placed on the sex offenders’ register for five years, and serve a community order with a three-year supervision requirement. The case has left many in Coventry and Warwick questioning the adequacy of the punishment for such a serious breach of trust and safety.
According to court records, the incident took place on September 14 in the area of Yarningale Road, Willenhall. Banton approached three young girls, aged 11 and 12, in a manner that caused alarm and distress. Witnesses reported that Banton pulled down his trousers in front of the children, making a lewd comment, saying, “You like that don’t you girls,” before briefly exposing himself for approximately two seconds. The girls, understandably frightened, fled the scene and sought refuge in a nearby shop.
Further testimony revealed that Banton attempted to physically grab one of the girls during the incident, but all three managed to escape and find safety. A witness who observed the events stated that Banton had been lurking in the vicinity for some time prior to the offence, watching the children and repeatedly entering and exiting his vehicle, raising suspicions about his intentions.
In his defense, Lawrence Watts, representing Banton, argued that the man had already suffered significant consequences as a result of his actions. He pointed out that Banton had lost his home and his business, emphasizing that this was a singular incident. Watts described Banton as having been regarded for many years as a decent man, suggesting that the incident was out of character.
However, Judge Patrick Eccles delivered a stern sentence, acknowledging the remorse Banton had shown but emphasizing the gravity of his actions. The judge stated, “You have gone a significant way towards showing the remorse and shame you should show. These girls were extremely frightened by the experience you subjected them to, and one does not know the extent to which their trust in adults has been damaged.”
The court also heard from the mothers of the three girls, who expressed their devastation and anger over the court’s decision not to impose a custodial sentence. One mother remarked, “Our little girls have lost their innocence and he has lost nothing,” while another added, “As far as I am concerned, he remains a threat to society.”
Detective Simon Hanlon, the officer leading the investigation, commented on the case, saying, “Obviously the families are very upset. We respect the judge’s decision but we are disappointed for the families.”
As part of his sentence, Robert Banton was ordered to complete a 300-hour sex offenders’ program, be placed on the sex offenders’ register for five years, and serve a community order with a three-year supervision requirement. The case has left many in Coventry and Warwick questioning the adequacy of the punishment for such a serious breach of trust and safety.