KELVIN NOBLE SENTENCED TO SIX YEARS FOR RAPE IN KINGSWOOD

In a case that has left a lasting scar on a young girl’s life, Kelvin Noble, a 57-year-old former security guard from Kingswood, was sentenced to six years and five months in prison after admitting to the sexual assault of a girl approximately ten years old. The disturbing incident, which took place in the 1990s, only came to light when the victim reported the abuse to the police, prompting a thorough investigation that ultimately led to Noble’s conviction.

During the proceedings at Bristol Crown Court, it was revealed that Noble engaged in brief sexual intercourse with the young girl. The court heard that he had coerced her into silence by telling her not to tell anyone about what had happened. The judge, Mark Horton, expressed deep condemnation of Noble’s actions, emphasizing the profound and lifelong emotional and psychological damage inflicted upon the victim. Judge Horton stated, “You pleaded guilty to the appalling rape of a vulnerable young girl probably no older than 10 years of age. Noble had raped her after ‘telling her not to tell,’ the judge said.”

Judge Horton further highlighted the severity of the offense, describing it as “an exceptionally serious offence,” and underscored the lasting impact on the girl’s well-being. He acknowledged that other factors might have compounded her suffering but made it clear that Noble’s choice to commit such an act was fundamentally grave. As part of his sentence, Noble was ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was subjected to a lifetime ban from working with children or vulnerable adults.

Prosecutor Brendon Moorhouse explained that Noble was initially due to face trial but had opted to plead guilty, which led to the court considering a reduced sentence. Moorhouse noted that Noble had no prior convictions, which may have influenced the court’s decision. Defense lawyer Rupert Lowe described Noble as a man of good character who, after becoming aroused by the girl’s presence, quickly realized his wrongdoing and ceased the act. Lowe emphasized that Noble had no intention of defending his actions during police interviews and that he had recently resigned from his position as a security guard at a university.

During the court proceedings, it was also revealed that the young girl had suffered abuse from multiple men during her childhood, with a separate criminal case pending against another alleged abuser. Lowe acknowledged that her difficult childhood was compounded by Noble’s actions, stating, “Mr Noble accepts his contribution to that by what he did to her.”

It was noted that Noble’s health issues, including a knee problem and biannual panic attacks that affect his heart rate and breathing, could significantly impact his time in prison. Additionally, he acts as a carer for his wife, who has serious medical difficulties.

Detective Constable Andy Coggins commented on the case, saying, “The sentence passed today on Kelvin Noble sends a clear message to anyone who may have committed rape or sexual assault. Crimes like this will not be tolerated in Avon and Somerset.” He encouraged victims of sexual assault to come forward, assuring them that support services are available. Victims can contact the police at 0845 456 7000 or reach out to The Bridge support service at 0117 342 6999 or via their website at http://www.turntothebridge.org.