CRAIG ROBINSON FROM KIRKBY IN-ASHFIELD JAILED FOR CHILD INDECENCY OFFENSES IN NOTTINGHAM

In a significant case highlighting the ongoing fight against child exploitation, Craig Robinson, a 31-year-old man residing on Beacon Drive in Kirkby, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being found guilty of possessing and sharing a vast collection of indecent images and videos depicting children. The case underscores the serious nature of online child abuse and the efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat such crimes.

Robinson’s criminal activities came to light after authorities uncovered his disturbing online behavior. He had engaged in communication with young girls as young as seven years old in the Philippines through Facebook Messenger. During these conversations, Robinson not only engaged the minors in sexually explicit discussions but also encouraged them to perform sexual acts. Furthermore, he requested and received indecent images of the children, in addition to sending them images of himself in compromising and illegal situations.

The investigation was initiated when Nottinghamshire Police’s Sexual Exploitation Investigation Unit received a crucial tip-off from Norfolk and Suffolk Police. This tip was part of a broader operation known as Operation Bane, which focused on the illegal sharing of indecent images over the internet. Using the information provided, authorities traced Robinson’s IP address through his internet service provider, leading to his arrest at his residence in Kirkby on June 29 of this year.

During the search and subsequent investigation, officers discovered that Robinson possessed an alarming collection of digital material. His collection included a total of 640 images classified as Category A, the most severe classification indicating the highest level of abuse and exploitation. These findings contributed to the charges brought against him, which included making indecent images of children and inciting or causing the sexual exploitation of minors.

Robinson appeared before Nottingham Crown Court on September 2, where he pleaded guilty to a total of 14 charges related to his actions. The court’s sentencing reflected the gravity of his offenses. He was sentenced to five years in prison, with an additional three-year extended license period to follow his release. This extended supervision aims to prevent further offending and protect the community.

In addition to his prison sentence, Robinson will be placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities. He is also subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which imposes strict restrictions on his behavior and contact with minors. The case serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by online predators and the importance of vigilant law enforcement efforts to safeguard vulnerable children from exploitation.