ROBERT LONG FROM WIGTON SENTENCED FOR RAPE AND SEXUAL OFFENCES IN CARLISLE

In April 2017, a man named Robert Long, aged 21 and residing in Wigton, was sentenced to eight years in prison after being convicted of a brutal rape that took place in 2015. The incident involved Long subjecting his 16-year-old victim to a violent assault, during which she was left trembling and bleeding, highlighting the severity and brutality of his actions.

Long's attack on the young girl occurred on December 18, 2015, after the two had connected through Facebook. Despite his claims that the encounter was consensual, the jury at Carlisle Crown Court found him guilty of rape, rejecting his version of events. The court proceedings revealed the disturbing nature of the assault, which left the victim traumatized and physically harmed.

While out on bail, Robert Long did not cease his criminal activities. Instead, he committed a series of seven additional offences, which included sexually grooming a 15-year-old girl and engaging in sexual activities with her. These offences further demonstrated a pattern of predatory behavior and a blatant disregard for the law and the well-being of his victims. Long ultimately pleaded guilty to all these charges, acknowledging his guilt in the court.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Peter Davies expressed his deep concern over Long's conduct. Sitting at Carlisle Crown Court, the judge remarked on the disturbing nature of Long's behavior during the trial, stating, "You showed no compassion or contrition for what you did. You reserved all your remorse for yourself. Your evidence was cold and devoid of feeling."

Throughout the proceedings, Long stood with his hands clasped in front of him, showing no visible emotion as the sentence was read aloud. The court's decision underscores the seriousness of his crimes and the impact on his victims, emphasizing the need for justice and the protection of the community from such predatory behavior.