ROBERT WILSON SENTENCED TO EIGHT YEARS FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN KIRKBY-IN-ASHFIELD

In a case that has shocked the community of Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Robert Wilson, a 42-year-old man with a long history of sexual offenses, was handed an eight-year prison sentence after being convicted of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl. The sentencing took place at Nottingham Crown Court, where Judge Michael Stokes, QC, expressed his strong disapproval of Wilson's actions and his concern about the danger he poses to children.

Wilson, a resident of Fairhaven in Kirkby-in-Ashfield, had previously served time in prison for similar offenses dating back to 1979. His criminal record includes convictions for sexual attacks on both boys and girls, highlighting a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior that has persisted over decades. Despite being on the Sex Offenders’ Register, Wilson managed to reoffend shortly after his release from incarceration.

The recent case involved Wilson befriending the grandmother of the 12-year-old girl, which allowed him to establish a relationship with her. According to court reports, the girl would often visit her grandmother’s house, where Wilson also spent time. It was during these visits that Wilson lured the young girl into his flat, where the offences occurred. Prosecutor Adrian Reynolds detailed that Wilson invited the girl into his residence, leading to a series of sexual assaults throughout 2001.

Initially, Wilson was charged with rape; however, he pleaded guilty to indecent assault, leading to the reduction of the charges. The court heard that the incidents involving the girl spanned several months, causing significant distress and trauma to the young victim. Wilson’s criminal history dates back to his first sexual offense in 1979, and he was first imprisoned in 1982 following two attacks on young boys, underscoring a troubling pattern of offending behavior.

During the trial, Wilson’s defense attorney, Martin Elwick, acknowledged the defendant’s guilty plea, stating, “There’s really not much I can say by way of mitigation, other than the defendant pleaded guilty to the offence — sparing the girl the ordeal of appearing in court.” Despite this, the judge emphasized the severity of Wilson’s crimes and the risk he continues to pose.

Judge Stokes delivered a stern warning, stating, “All the reports tell me he’s effectively untreatable, and I make it plain that if I had the power I would send him to prison for life. He’s a real danger to children.” The judge also made it clear that Wilson must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before being eligible for parole, reflecting the gravity of his offenses and the ongoing threat he represents to society.