WESLEY COOPER FROM OLDBURY SENTENCED AFTER SEXUAL ABUSE ON SCHOOLGIRL

In a case that has shocked the community of Oldbury, Wesley Cooper, a man aged 53, has finally been brought to justice after a series of disturbing sexual offenses committed against a young schoolgirl. The lengthy legal process culminated in Cooper being sentenced to prison, following revelations that only emerged after a period of denial and a failed suicide attempt.

Back in July 2016, Cooper’s troubling history came under scrutiny when he was finally convicted of multiple charges related to sexual activity with a minor. The case had a complex history, with police first interviewing Cooper in 2012 after the victim, then only 13 years old, disclosed details of her abuse. Despite the serious nature of her allegations, law enforcement officials decided not to pursue charges at that time, citing insufficient evidence to proceed with prosecution.

Throughout this period, Cooper maintained his innocence, vehemently denying any wrongdoing. His steadfast denial persisted until June 2015, when he attempted to take his own life by shooting himself in the mouth. This dramatic act of desperation prompted a mental health assessment, during which Cooper made startling admissions. He confessed to being a paedophile and expressed that he was struggling to cope with the situation, revealing the extent of his internal turmoil.

Prosecutor Sally Hancox explained that during the assessment, Cooper’s mental state was evaluated, and although he initially appeared to be in distress, subsequent evaluations by mental health professionals concluded that he did not suffer from any psychiatric disorders. Despite this, the admissions he made during this period proved pivotal in the case.

At Wolverhampton Crown Court, Judge Kristina Montgomery QC heard how Cooper finally admitted to six charges of sexual activity with a child. The judge described the case as deeply troubling, emphasizing that Cooper had groomed his young victim, deliberately targeting her due to her age and vulnerability. The court was particularly concerned about the significant age gap and the calculated nature of his actions.

Following his conviction, Cooper was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison. The judge also imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which will remain in effect until further notice, and mandated that he register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. Addressing Cooper directly, Judge Montgomery stated, “It took a significant breakdown in your mental health for the truth to come forward.” She underscored the gravity of the grooming and exploitation, highlighting the profound breach of trust and the lasting impact on the victim.