BOBBY WHALLEY SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS FOR ABUSING CHILDREN IN HANLEY

Bobby Whalley, a man from Hanley, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 15 years after being found guilty of sexually abusing three young children. The conviction followed a detailed trial at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, where it was revealed that the 26-year-old had engaged in a series of heinous acts involving four schoolgirls aged 12 and 13.

Prosecutors outlined how Whalley systematically befriended and groomed his victims, employing manipulative tactics to gain their trust and affection. He exploited their innocence and vulnerability, convincing them that he was 'their god,' a disturbing assertion that underscores the level of psychological control he exerted over them. This manipulation was so profound that the victims believed they were in love with him, a fact highlighted during the court proceedings.

The court heard that three of the children had engaged in sexual activity with Whalley, a revelation that added to the gravity of his crimes. The case was brought to light when one of the victims courageously disclosed the abuse in 2020, prompting a police investigation that uncovered the full extent of Whalley's misconduct. The court was told that the abuse inflicted lasting trauma on all four victims, profoundly affecting their lives.

Whalley's criminal record includes multiple charges, such as 10 counts of sexual activity with a child, five counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, causing a child to watch a sexual act, and causing a child to participate in sexual activity. The judge, Sally Hancox, delivered a stern judgment, emphasizing the manipulative nature of Whalley's actions. She stated,