ROBYN FLOYD FROM SOUTH WITHAM CONVICTED FOR SEXUAL ACTIVITY WITH 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN LINCOLN

In August 2018, a serious case involving Robyn Floyd, an 18-year-old resident of South Witham, came to light when she was convicted of engaging in inappropriate and illegal sexual activity with a minor. The incident, which took place over several months, involved Floyd forming a relationship with a 13-year-old girl she met at a bus stop. This relationship was characterized by acts of affection such as hugging, holding hands, and kissing, all of which are considered criminal under the law due to the age difference and Floyd's awareness of the minor's age.

According to the prosecution, Richard Thatcher, during proceedings at Lincoln Crown Court, Floyd was aware that the girl was only 13 at the time the relationship began. Initially, Floyd believed the girl to be 15, but she later acknowledged the true age. The relationship persisted for a few months, during which the two engaged in consensual acts of affection, including hugging, holding hands, and kissing. The court heard that the relationship ended in November 2015, when Floyd had booked a hotel room in Grantham with the intention of staying there with the girl, an act that was never carried out.

Following the end of the relationship, a complaint was made to the police, leading to Floyd's arrest. During police interviews, Floyd admitted to being involved with the girl, expressing that she loved her and was sexually attracted to her. Her actions and feelings were considered significant factors in her conviction.

In her defense, Karen Walton, representing Floyd, highlighted a psychological report indicating that Floyd was significantly immature at the time of the offence. Walton explained that Floyd's mental age was much younger than her actual age of 18, which she argued should be taken into account when considering her culpability.

Judge Andrew Easteal, presiding over the case, emphasized the importance of the law in protecting minors from exploitation and from their own vulnerabilities. He clarified that the law's purpose is not only to shield children from predatory adults but also to prevent them from engaging in harmful relationships. The judge acknowledged that Floyd believed she was in a genuine relationship, but stressed that the girl was simply too young to consent legally. The judge pointed out that the sexual activity involved was limited to hugging, kissing, and holding hands, and did not extend to any further acts.

Floyd, of Wellfield Lane, South Witham, pleaded guilty to a charge of sexual activity with a child. As part of her sentence, she was given a 12-month community order, which includes a requirement to participate in a 30-day rehabilitation activity. Additionally, she was placed on the sex offenders register for five years and was subject to a five-year sexual harm prevention order, aimed at monitoring and restricting her future conduct to protect the community from potential harm.