ANDREW ROBINSON'S SHAMEFUL CASE IN GLOUCESTER: JUDGE SLAMS POLICE OVER POOR HANDLING IN SEX OFFENDER CASE

In October 2009, a Gloucester court heard a case that has raised serious concerns about the effectiveness and professionalism of local police procedures. Andrew Robinson, a resident of Kingsholm Road in Gloucester, found himself back in court amid criticism from the judiciary regarding the police's handling of his case.

Robinson, aged 33, had previously served a nine-month prison sentence in 2006 after being convicted of engaging in sexual activity with a girl under the age of 16. Despite his prior conviction, he was now facing scrutiny for failing to comply with the legal requirement to notify authorities of any change of address within three days, as mandated by the Sex Offenders’ Register.

On a Tuesday at Gloucester Magistrates’ Court, the case was brought before District Judge Martin Brown. The prosecution, led by Sharon Green, outlined that police had conducted a home visit to Robinson’s residence. During this visit, police discovered that, according to Robinson’s mother, he had moved out of the address previously registered. However, the police’s actions and the evidence gathered during this visit came under severe criticism.

Matthew Harbison, representing Robinson, argued that his client was unaware of the obligation to personally attend the police station to report a change of address. He emphasized that Robinson had made a telephone call to inform the authorities, which he believed should have sufficed. Despite this, the police had failed to record any notes of their visit or gather concrete evidence linking Robinson to any breach of the register.

Judge Brown expressed his disapproval of the police’s conduct, describing their actions as “unforgivable.” He stated, “The police have done a poor job and this is really a nonsense. There is no evidence and no note and this is a poorly prepared case. The whole thing is a mess.”

He further explained that Robinson’s arrest was based solely on his mother’s comments, and no formal statement had been taken from him or any other witnesses. Due to the lack of proper documentation and evidence, the judge decided not to impose prosecution costs, highlighting the case’s inadequate preparation.

Ultimately, Robinson was fined £170 for his failure to update his address as required. The case has sparked debate about police procedures and the importance of thorough case management, especially in sensitive cases involving sex offenders in Gloucester.