ROBERT GADSBY FROM BURTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILDREN IN SHOCKING CASE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Burton, a local youth worker named Robert Gadsby has been sentenced to three years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing two young children. The serious nature of his crimes led a Stafford Crown Court judge to describe him as ‘a serious risk to young persons,’ highlighting the grave concern surrounding his actions.

Details of the case revealed that the offences took place within Gadsby’s own residence on Ferry Street in Burton. The court heard that the abuse involved a nine-year-old girl and an 11-year-old boy, both of whom were subjected to inappropriate sexual acts. Prosecutor Paul Spratt outlined that Gadsby engaged in simulated sexual acts with the boy, and on two separate occasions, he inappropriately touched the girl. These heinous acts only came to light after the boy confided in the police in September of that year.

Following the disclosure, Gadsby, aged 52, was swiftly arrested and brought before a special magistrates’ court session held on a Saturday approximately eight weeks prior to sentencing. During the hearing, Gadsby admitted to the charges, which included two counts of sexual assault against the girl, three counts of sexual assault against the boy, and three charges of incitement to commit sexual acts.

Judge Mark Eades did not hold back in his condemnation, stating, “You are attracted to pre-pubescent children… you groom them while overcoming their resistance by bribery.” The judge’s remarks underscored the severity of the grooming and manipulation involved in the case.

Prosecutor Spratt further revealed that Gadsby had confided in a friend about his inappropriate behaviors. He claimed that Gadsby had worked as a teacher for a significant period and would invite children to his home under false pretenses, often paying them for their company. Spratt described Gadsby’s comments as suggesting that he viewed these children as “like rent boys.”

Additionally, Gadsby admitted that his computer was likely to contain male pornography, raising concerns about potential further victims or evidence of ongoing inappropriate conduct. Prosecutors emphasized that based on Gadsby’s admissions, there could be additional complainants, and his actions pose a serious threat to young persons in the community.

Defense lawyer Simon Phillips argued that Gadsby was not a teacher but had worked with children and youths over the years. He described Gadsby as a man who led a lonely life, primarily focused on work, and noted that Gadsby initially denied the allegations during his police interview. However, Phillips stated that Gadsby had since expressed remorse and had even requested to be remanded in custody, indicating his awareness of the gravity of his situation. The court’s decision to sentence Gadsby to three years reflects the seriousness of his crimes and the ongoing concern for the safety of children in Burton.