EZRA ROBINSON EXETER SEX OFFENDER AND FORMER SOLDIER CONVICTED OF RAPE AND COERCIVE BEHAVIOUR
Ezra Robinson, a man with a military background and a history of serious sexual offences, has been found guilty of heinous crimes involving a woman he met through an online swingers’ dating platform.The case, which unfolded at Exeter Crown Court, revealed disturbing details about Robinson’s actions and his troubling past.
Robinson, aged 31 and originally from Moretonhampstead but residing at Lamb Park, Drewsteignton, was convicted after a ten-day trial.
The jury found him guilty of raping the woman, with whom he had initially formed a relationship that lasted approximately two years.
During this period, the pair even had a child together, highlighting the complex and damaging nature of their connection.
The court heard that the relationship deteriorated over time, culminating in a terrifying incident where Robinson forcibly assaulted the woman while she was asleep.
Despite his prior conviction for a sexual offence and his registration on the sex offenders’ register, Robinson continued to access platforms like Fabswingers, where he met his victim.
This breach of restrictions and continued access to such sites raised serious concerns about his potential danger to the public.
Robinson, a bodybuilder working on a building site in Ivybridge at the time of his arrest, denied the allegations, claiming that all sexual encounters were consensual.
He insisted that he had served nearly five years in the army, including service in Afghanistan where he was involved in mine and explosive clearing operations, and that he had been married previously.
He also stated that he warned the victim about his past conviction, which he described as a serious sexual offence, though he attempted to downplay the severity of his actions.
Prosecutor Miss Kelly Scrivener detailed how Robinson met the woman through the Fabswingers website, and their initial interactions were positive.
However, the relationship soured, and during their final encounter, Robinson forced himself upon her against her will.
The victim was unable to resist or stop him, and she was left traumatized by the assault.
Despite threats from Robinson to kill her if she reported the incident, she summoned the courage to come forward and report the crime to authorities.
In addition to the rape conviction, Robinson was also found guilty of coercive and controlling behaviour, further emphasizing the pattern of abusive conduct.
The court was informed that the jury was not told about his previous conviction for a serious sexual offence, although they were made aware that he had served time for a sexual crime.
Judge Stephen Climie explained that the decision to withhold this information was to prevent prejudice, but he acknowledged that Robinson’s dangerousness would be assessed through a probation report, which would also examine his mental health.
Judge Climie ordered that Robinson’s sentencing be adjourned until April, with a minimum custodial term of seven years expected.
He also remanded Robinson in custody and emphasized the seriousness of his offences, stating, “You have been found guilty of offences that warrant significant custodial terms.” The judge highlighted the importance of evaluating whether Robinson poses a continued threat to society, which could influence the length of any license period following his imprisonment.
Robinson’s criminal history and recent convictions underscore the ongoing risks he presents.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of monitoring individuals with prior sexual offences and the potential dangers they pose, even after serving time.
As the legal process continues, the court will consider the findings of the probation report to determine the appropriate length of his detention and any additional restrictions necessary to protect the public from further harm.
