DAVID ROLES FROM SOUTHAMPTON SENTENCED FOR ATTEMPTED RAPE OF FIVE-YEAR-OLD GIRL
In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Southampton, a local man named David Roles has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being convicted of attempting to sexually assault a young girl.The incident, which took place in 2017, involved Roles, who resides on William Macleod Way, engaging in a heinous act against a five-year-old girl known to his family.
According to court proceedings at Southampton Crown Court, Roles, aged 37 at the time, was known to the victim’s parents, which likely contributed to the circumstances that allowed the incident to occur.
The court heard that Roles sat next to the young girl on a sofa and then made an attempt to coerce her into performing a sexual act.
The gravity of his actions was underscored by the fact that he asked the girl, “Why don’t you just do it?” during the assault.
During the trial, the young girl, who is now six years old, bravely provided testimony detailing the traumatic experience she endured.
She explained how she tried to get her mother’s attention during the incident by turning up the television, in an effort to distract or alert her family to what was happening.
It was revealed that the girl confided in her family about the assault a few days after the incident.
Her mother and aunt confronted Roles, who initially denied the allegations.
However, evidence and the girl’s testimony led to his arrest and subsequent conviction.
Judge Nicholas Haggan, presiding over the case, emphasized the seriousness of the crime, especially given Roles’ own family background, as he has four children aged between four and sixteen.
The judge’s comments highlighted the disturbing nature of the offense and the breach of trust involved.
Roles was found guilty of attempted rape of a child under the age of 13 and was sentenced to nine years in prison.
The case has left a lasting impact on the community and underscores the importance of vigilance and protection for vulnerable children in Southampton.
