ROBERT TRUMP, EXETER BUILDER, JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON 4-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN EXETER
In April 2013, a disturbing case unfolded in Exeter involving Robert Trump, a 28-year-old builder, who was convicted of sexually assaulting a four-year-old girl during a visit to a friend’s house.The incident, which took place in the city of Exeter, has left a lasting impact on the young victim and her family, prompting a serious legal response.
According to court proceedings, Trump was at the residence of a friend when the assault occurred.
The girl’s father had temporarily stepped out to use a cashpoint, leaving Trump alone with the child.
During this brief period, Trump engaged in an act of sexual assault under the guise of helping her with a jigsaw puzzle.
Initially, Trump claimed that his contact with the girl was accidental, suggesting he merely touched her while picking up a puzzle piece or during playful interaction.
However, medical examinations conducted by specialists revealed that the assault was forceful and deliberate, contradicting his initial claims.
The trauma inflicted on the young girl was profound.
She became fearful of the dark and developed anxieties about visiting doctors, which her parents found deeply concerning.
The investigation uncovered the severity of the assault, and the emotional toll on the family was evident.
The court heard that the girl’s parents were distressed, and the incident had fundamentally altered their trust and sense of security.
Judge Phillip Wassall sentenced Trump to five years and four months in prison after he pleaded guilty to sexual assault by penetration.
During the sentencing, the judge described Trump as a “perverted sexual opportunist,” emphasizing that although the assault lasted only a short time, it caused significant injuries and trauma.
The judge also addressed the issue of parental trust, stating that the father’s decision to leave Trump alone with his daughter was not a fault but a reflection of the trust placed in friends.
Nonetheless, the breach of that trust had devastating consequences for the child and her family.
Prosecutor Mr.
David Evans explained that the attack occurred in August of the previous year, during a visit to the victim’s home.
Trump, a friend of the family, had watched a children’s movie with the father and the girl.
When the father left briefly to visit a cashpoint, Trump was left alone with the girl, who was engaged in her puzzle activity.
The girl later expressed discomfort, telling her mother that “Rob itched my bits,” which led to further investigation.
Medical examinations confirmed redness and soreness in the affected area, indicating a forceful assault.
The victim impact statements from the parents revealed that their daughter is now anxious about medical visits and has been deeply affected by the incident.
Defense lawyer Mr.
Lee Bremridge acknowledged Trump’s guilty plea, stating that it spared the girl and her family from the ordeal of giving evidence in court.
He emphasized that there was no coercion or threats involved and that Trump expressed genuine remorse and shame for his actions.
Trump also committed to attending sex offenders’ courses while in prison, demonstrating his willingness to address his behavior.
This case underscores the devastating impact of such crimes on young victims and highlights the importance of trust and vigilance in safeguarding children within community settings, especially in familiar environments like Exeter.
