ROBERT WALLER BASINGSTOKE SEX OFFENDER AVOIDS PRISON DESPITE CHILD'S TRAUMA

In October 2002, a case that has sparked outrage in Basingstoke has brought to light the controversial sentencing of Robert Waller, a 19-year-old man convicted of indecently assaulting a nine-year-old girl. The assault occurred last year, leaving the young victim in need of ongoing counseling and psychological support. The incident has deeply affected her family, especially her father, who expressed his profound disappointment and anger over the court's decision.

During the sentencing at Winchester Crown Court, Judge Michael Brodrick delivered a verdict that many in the community found hard to accept. Instead of imposing a custodial sentence, the judge opted for a two-year rehabilitation order, asserting that society would be better protected if Waller received a form of behavioral correction rather than imprisonment. In his remarks, Judge Brodrick explained, “You will get that in one way in detention but this is a bit like youngsters going behind bike sheds and swapping inaccurate information.” He further justified his decision by stating, “I have come to the conclusion that while this case does warrant a custodial sentence, the better and safer course as far as the public is concerned is a two-year rehabilitation order.”

The victim’s father, who was present in the courtroom’s public gallery, revealed his internal struggle during the sentencing. He said, “I had to stop myself from standing up and saying something. I was disgusted. My daughter is still suffering. This man should be in jail for five years at least. He’s walking around now as if he’s got away with it.”

Robert Waller, who resides on Gershwin Road in Basingstoke, admitted to the indecent assault. The court heard that Waller’s defense, led by Andrew Barnett, claimed that the assault was encouraged by the young girl, a point the judge rejected. Judge Brodrick emphasized that Waller’s perception of the girl’s encouragement indicated a significant lack of understanding, which needed to be addressed through education and professional help. The judge remarked, “It may be that misunderstanding lies at the heart of the case and it is that distorted thinking on his part that needs to be tackled.”

Waller was also ordered to register as a sex offender for five years, with a stern warning that any breach of this order would result in a return to court and likely a custodial sentence. Judge Brodrick underscored the seriousness of this condition, stating, “There is a very real sanction lying behind this order, if you choose to breach it, and that adds to the protection the public is likely to get.”

Overall, the case has ignited debate about sentencing practices and the protection of vulnerable children in Basingstoke, with many feeling that justice has not been fully served in this instance.