NEIL ROBINSON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL GROOMING IN YORK AND SELBY
In a case that has shocked the local communities of York and Selby, Neil Robinson has been sentenced to four and a half years in prison for his disturbing crimes involving under-aged girls.The court heard that Robinson, who was formerly residing on Olympia Crescent in Selby, engaged in a pattern of grooming and sexual misconduct that spanned over a period of time, targeting vulnerable young girls through social media platforms.
According to the court proceedings, Robinson initiated contact with his first victim around her 13th birthday, gradually building a relationship that he believed culminated in a romantic connection.
The court was told that the girl was only 15 when Robinson committed sexual acts with her.
At the time of their initial contact, Robinson was 21 years old, and he was aware that she was just 13.
The case revealed that Robinson’s grooming involved persistent communication and manipulation, which ultimately led to the sexual activity.
When Robinson was arrested in connection with this first incident, he was released on bail under strict conditions that prohibited him from having any contact with girls under the age of 16.
Despite this, Robinson continued his predatory behavior by befriending another young girl, knowing she was 15.
The court heard that during a period when she was intoxicated, Robinson engaged in sexual activity with her at a friend’s house, further demonstrating his disregard for the law and the safety of minors.
Prior to his trial at York Crown Court, Robinson had received two cautions related to child abduction, which added to the seriousness of his offenses.
Throughout the legal proceedings, Robinson maintained his innocence against a series of sexual assault charges.
However, on the day of his trial, he chose to change his plea and admitted to one count of sexual activity with each girl.
His decision to plead guilty was influenced by his legal counsel, who indicated that this might result in a more lenient sentence.
The judge acknowledged that Robinson’s guilty pleas served as a significant factor in mitigating his sentence.
The court also considered the backgrounds of the victims, both of whom had troubled histories, which the judge noted as an aggravating factor in the case.
Nonetheless, the judge emphasized that Robinson’s remorse and his decision to admit guilt prevented the victims from having to endure the trauma of giving evidence in court.
In addition to his prison sentence, Robinson was ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was subjected to a lifelong sexual harm prevention order.
This order explicitly prohibits him from sleeping in or remaining at the same residence as any girl under 16 without social services’ approval.
It also restricts his use of the internet, requiring police knowledge and approval before he can access online platforms.
Michael Greenhalgh, speaking on behalf of Robinson, stated that his client has struggled to come to terms with his actions and expressed remorse towards the victims.
Since his guilty plea, Robinson has faced social media backlash and has been approached in public.
His involvement in an animal management course was halted following his arrest, but he has since engaged in voluntary work.
Looking ahead, Robinson has expressed that he will be cautious in future relationships to avoid further offending, indicating a recognition of the gravity of his crimes.
