ROBERT BROOKES

A Bedford resident has received a prison sentence after being found guilty of grooming a girl for sexual purposes in exchange for money and drugs.

Robert Brookes, 37 years old, frequently supplied the victim with cocaine and cannabis and offered monetary rewards for sexual acts.

Additionally, he reached out through social media to a friend of the girl, attempting to groom her using similar methods.

His actions were uncovered after a relative of the victim spotted the messages he had sent her.

After a detailed investigation, Brookes was convicted of two counts of coercing a girl into sexual activity, two counts of delivering a Class A drug, and two counts of offering to supply cocaine.

He was sentenced at Luton Crown Court to serve six years and three months behind bars.

Detective Constable David Widdicombe from the Protecting Vulnerable People unit stated: “Brookes’s actions were despicable, taking advantage of a young girl in the worst ways, and I am satisfied he has been handed a custodial sentence.

“The victim’s courage in reporting this is commendable, and we hope she can now begin to heal from this ordeal.

“Ensuring the safety of women and girls from violence remains a major focus in our efforts.

We are committed to removing offenders from society through prosecution, and this case sends a clear message to other potential offenders that justice will be served.

“Grooming incidents are on the rise — predators often build trust with their victims, whether face-to-face or online, before exploiting that relationship.

“Grooming may happen both through direct contact or via online platforms, often perpetrated by strangers but sometimes by acquaintances.

Parents and guardians should be alert to the signs, which might not be immediately obvious or could be concealed.

We encourage open dialogue with children, teaching them to speak up if something doesn’t feel right, so they know they have support and protection.”