ROBERT STANLEY FROM MIDDLEPORT SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN STOKE-ON-TRENT

In August 2013, Robert Stanley, a 52-year-old man from Middleport, was sentenced to six and a half years in prison after being found guilty of multiple serious offenses involving the sexual abuse of three young girls. The case was heard at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, where disturbing details of Stanley’s actions emerged during the proceedings.

Prosecutor Anthony Potter outlined the extent of Stanley’s misconduct, revealing that the defendant had engaged in a pattern of grooming and abusing three separate victims over a span of several years. According to the court, Stanley’s abuse began with manipulative tactics aimed at gaining the girls’ trust, which eventually escalated to more invasive acts.

Mr. Potter explained that Stanley encouraged two of the girls to expose their breasts, gradually progressing to instructing them to lift their skirts. The court heard that Stanley’s behavior became increasingly sexualized, with the girls being coerced into stripping for him and performing acts at his behest. The prosecutor emphasized that Stanley would give the girls cigarettes as a form of reward or manipulation, further entrenching his control over them.

One of the victims reported the abuse in 2010, after which police investigations commenced. The second girl came forward after learning about other allegations against Stanley, believing her own abuse had begun when she was approximately 12 or 13 years old. The third victim was abused some years later, with Stanley touching her over her clothing in a manner deemed inappropriate and illegal.

During the investigation, authorities seized two of Stanley’s computers, which were found to contain indecent images of children, adding to the severity of his charges. Stanley, who resides on Sunnybank in Middleport, pleaded guilty to nine counts of indecent assault, one count of engaging in sexual activity with a child, and two charges related to the production of indecent photographs of children.

In mitigation, defense lawyer Catherine O’Reilly highlighted that Stanley had previously been of good character. She expressed that he felt remorseful and overwhelmed by guilt, stating, “He wants to engage with probation during his custodial sentence and undertake any courses he feels will help him in the future.”

However, Judge Paul Glenn delivered a stern judgment, emphasizing the disturbing nature of Stanley’s actions. He pointed out that the possession of indecent images indicated a continued interest in young girls. The judge described the case as a classic grooming operation, noting that Stanley had manipulated the victims and played them against each other. He also highlighted that Stanley was married at the time of the offenses, which added a layer of betrayal and moral failing.

Judge Glenn expressed concern about the potential for further offenses, stating, “There was a risk of Stanley committing further crimes against children.” He characterized the offenses as premeditated and committed over a significant period, underscoring the gravity of the case.

As part of his sentence, Stanley was subjected to a 10-year sexual offences prevention order and will be registered as a sex offender for life. The court also ordered that he serve up to half of his sentence in custody, with the remainder on license, ensuring ongoing supervision and restrictions to prevent further harm.