ROBERT GUY FROM FERRYHILL AND BISHOP AUCKLAND JAILED FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE

In a case that has shocked the communities of Bishop Auckland and Ferryhill, County Durham, Robert Guy, a 46-year-old man with a history of sexual offenses, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being found guilty of abusing a young boy. The court heard that Guy, who uses a wheelchair, had previously served time for similar offenses committed during the late 1970s and early 1980s, when he sexually assaulted girls. Despite this prior conviction and a three-year community rehabilitation order issued five years ago, Guy continued to pose a significant risk to children.

The recent abuse took place in the early part of this decade, within the town of Bishop Auckland. The victim, a young boy, was subjected to systematic sexual abuse by Guy, who had warned him that revealing the abuse would lead to trouble. The horrifying details only came to light last August when the boy confided in a social worker, expressing that he was no longer afraid of his attacker and was ready to disclose what had happened.

Following the confession, authorities swiftly arrested Guy. He initially denied the allegations, maintaining his innocence during police interviews. However, during a court appearance in June, Guy pleaded guilty to three counts of rape and three counts of indecent assault. His legal representative, Scott Smith, expressed remorse on his behalf, stating that the defendant had asked him to convey his sincere sorrow and regret, although this offered little comfort to the victim.

At the hearing, Guy’s health issues came to the forefront when he was taken to hospital after suffering an angina attack. Despite his health concerns, the court proceeded with the sentencing. The prosecution highlighted the severity of the crimes, emphasizing the grooming behavior and threats used to silence the young victim. Judge Peter Armstrong condemned Guy’s actions, stating, “The effect on your victim can’t be underestimated. You have effectively stolen his childhood and potentially ruined his life.”

Judge Armstrong also pointed out that the evidence suggested Guy was a recidivist offender, noting the grooming and intimidation tactics used. As a result, Guy was sentenced to 12 years in prison, with an additional five years on extended license to ensure ongoing monitoring due to the high risk he poses to children. Furthermore, he was banned indefinitely from working with children and was placed on the sex offenders’ register for life.

As Guy was led away in his wheelchair past a crowded public gallery, reactions from the onlookers were intense. A woman shouted, “I hope you rot,” while a man added, “Die.” The court’s decision reflects the gravity of the crimes committed and the ongoing concern for child safety in the community of County Durham.