HOYLAKE PENSIONER ROBERT CROXFORD SENTENCED TO 17 YEARS FOR HORRIFIC SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRLS

In December 2017, a 68-year-old man from Hoylake, Robert Croxford, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 17 years after being convicted of multiple heinous crimes committed during his youth. The court heard how Croxford had subjected a very young girl to two separate rapes, along with a series of indecent assaults, causing profound and lasting trauma.

Throughout the trial, Croxford maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges. His refusal to accept responsibility meant that his youngest victim was forced to relive her painful experiences in a court setting, recounting the abuse she endured at his hands. Despite his denial, the jury unanimously found Croxford guilty of two counts of rape and eleven counts of indecent assault.

The victim, who bravely testified during the proceedings, described her struggles with mental health issues stemming from the abuse. She revealed that she had experienced severe emotional distress, including phases of self-harm such as pulling out her hair and even attempting to take her own life through overdoses. Prosecutor Martine Snowdon read from her personal statement, highlighting how she believed she was at fault for the assaults and had developed a distorted view of herself as a result of Croxford’s manipulations. The victim expressed that Croxford’s actions had made her believe she was responsible for the abuse, which contributed to her ongoing mental health struggles.

She disclosed feelings of guilt upon revealing the sexual attacks and has been diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder. Her condition has necessitated ongoing treatment, including the use of anti-depressants she began taking in her twenties after suffering a major mental health breakdown that led to her hospitalization.

The second victim, also a young girl, was subjected to inappropriate touching and kissing during her teenage years. Her ordeal was part of the evidence that led to Croxford’s conviction, illustrating a pattern of predatory behavior.

Judge Robert Warnock addressed Croxford directly during sentencing, condemning his actions as wholly unacceptable. He stated, “You created the opportunity to indecently assault and rape a girl 20 years younger than you. You stole her childhood and blighted her adulthood. I hope her courage and dignity in this trial serve as a help to her in her later life.”

Croxford, who resides on Lee Court Road in Hoylake, had a prior criminal record, which included a conviction for possessing indecent images of underage children. As part of his sentence, he was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities to protect the community from further harm.