MARK ROBINSON FROM ST AUSTELL SENTENCED TO 22 YEARS FOR RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULTS IN NEWQUAY

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of St Austell and the surrounding areas, Mark Robinson, a 49-year-old man from Eddystone Road, was handed a severe prison sentence of 22 years after being found guilty of multiple heinous crimes involving a young girl in the Newquay region.

Robinson faced a series of serious charges including seven counts of rape, one count of assault by penetration, and two counts of sexual assault. The offences spanned several years and involved a girl who was under the age of 16 at the time. Despite his denial of the allegations, the evidence presented in court was compelling enough to secure a conviction.

The case was heard at Truro Crown Court, where a jury deliberated and ultimately found Robinson guilty of all charges. The court proceedings revealed that the victim, who was a student at a local school, came forward after participating in lessons about healthy relationships. Her decision to speak out was facilitated by a school counsellor, which prompted the school to contact her mother and report the matter to law enforcement authorities.

Emily Pitts, representing the Crown Prosecution Service, explained that it was through this process that the girl found the strength to disclose her traumatic experiences to an adult. She also confided in a friend, which further supported her case. The court heard disturbing details of the abuse, including that Robinson had made the girl perform oral sex on him and had attempted to take her virginity when she was just 12 years old. However, he stopped the assault because it was causing her pain. Ms. Pitts emphasized that the girl believed her experiences were normal at the time, as she lacked any prior knowledge of such acts.

During the trial, the defence, represented by Bathsheba Cassel, portrayed Robinson as a man of generally good character, noting his limited criminal record, which included only a single previous conviction for burglary. Ms. Cassel argued that the abusive behaviour had ceased long before it was reported to authorities and highlighted Robinson’s health issues, including a stomach ulcer and arthritis. She also pointed out that he was an active member of his community, volunteering as a National Trust volunteer.

However, Judge Simon Carr was unequivocal in his sentencing. Addressing the court, he stated that anyone who had heard the girl’s testimony would have no doubt about the truth of her account. The judge remarked, “I am perfectly clear that [the girl] will live with the consequences of what you did for the rest of her life.” He further commended her courage in speaking out, describing her as a person of remarkable strength, which stood in stark contrast to Robinson’s character. The judge emphasized that her bravery in coming forward was a testament to her resilience, while Robinson’s actions revealed a different, darker side of his personality.