ROBERT COLLIER SENTENCED IN NORTH WALES FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF SCHOOLGIRLS

In a recent and highly disturbing case, Robert Collier, a 59-year-old man from North Wales, has been sentenced to three and a half years in prison for the sexual abuse of two young schoolgirls. The court also mandated that Collier register on the Sex Offenders’ Register for the remainder of his life, reflecting the severity of his crimes.

Collier, whose full name is Robert Leonard Collier, was brought before Mold Crown Court to face ten charges of indecent assault. These charges stemmed from incidents involving two schoolgirls over a period of two years. Despite his denial of the allegations, a jury reached a unanimous verdict convicting him of all charges. During the proceedings, Collier was seen gripping the front of the dock and stood with his head bowed as the verdicts were announced, indicating a somber acknowledgment of the court’s decision.

Judge John Rogers QC addressed the court, emphasizing the persistent nature of Collier’s abuse. He stated that Collier had engaged in serious offences over an extended period, highlighting the gravity of his actions. The judge also noted that Collier was responsible for the daily care of his elderly and infirm mother, with whom he resided at the time of the offences.

The court heard that Collier had, in fact, virtually admitted his guilt during an initial police interview, which made his conviction almost inevitable. The girls involved in the case provided their testimonies via a television link during the three-day trial, ensuring their safety and privacy. Collier’s own admission to police was a key element in the case; however, he later claimed in court that his confession was motivated solely by a desire to leave the police station quickly due to his suffering from claustrophobia. He described how this condition developed after working down a pipe, where a lid was placed on him, leading to a traumatic experience that resulted in the death of a colleague.

During his emotional testimony, Collier broke down in tears, stating, “If they had accused me of sinking the Titanic, I would have agreed with them.” Despite this, prosecutor Rhys Rowlands pointed out that an examination of Collier’s police interview revealed he had not only agreed with the police but had also volunteered information. The tape recording of the interview demonstrated that Collier was not under any undue pressure; in fact, at one point, he was observed laughing.

To protect the privacy of the victims, an order was issued under the Children and Young Persons’ Act, ensuring that the identities of the two schoolgirls involved in the case remain confidential. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which the judicial system treats cases of child sexual abuse, especially when committed by individuals entrusted with care and responsibility.