PETER COLLINS JAILED FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE IN BIRMINGHAM
In a harrowing case that has shocked the Birmingham community, Peter Collins, aged 58, has been sentenced to nearly two decades behind bars for a series of heinous child abuse crimes spanning over twenty years.The conviction follows a detailed investigation and a lengthy trial at Birmingham Crown Court, during which multiple victims bravely testified about their traumatic experiences.
Collins, a delivery driver residing on Talfourd Street in Bordesley Green, was accused of preying on young girls over a period that began in 1995.
His first known victim was an 11-year-old girl, and over the years, he continued to commit similar offenses against other minors.
The last recorded assault took place in 2016, involving a 12-year-old girl.
It was this incident that ultimately led to the victim summoning the courage to speak out, prompting police to launch a comprehensive investigation.
Following the victim’s disclosure, law enforcement officials from West Midlands Police’s Public Protection Unit initiated a detailed inquiry.
The police charged Collins with multiple counts, including three counts of indecent assault, one count of indecency with a child, two counts of sexual assault involving a child under 13 by penetration, two counts of assault by penetration, two counts of sexual assault, and two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.
Throughout the trial, Collins maintained a denial of the allegations.
He claimed that he suffered from a condition that caused him to fall asleep unexpectedly, rendering him unaware of his actions during the incidents.
However, this defense was thoroughly discredited by expert witnesses whose testimonies did not support his claims.
The jury, after deliberating for three weeks, found Collins guilty of all charges.
Judge handed down a sentence of 19 years in prison and ordered Collins to register as a sex offender for life.
Detective Constable Katrina Sands, who led the investigation, expressed her relief at the verdict.
She stated, “Collins abused vulnerable young girls and continued his predatory behaviour for over several decades.
All victims gave evidence in court, and I commend their bravery in re-living what are surely very painful memories.” Sands further emphasized the importance of community awareness and encouraged anyone who might have been victimized by Collins to come forward.
“When confronted, Collins denied the allegations and claimed in his defence that he had a condition which led to him fall asleep unexpectedly in a number of places and being unaware of what he was doing.
Expert witnesses gave evidence which didn’t support this claim.
We are delighted the jury saw through Collins’ denial the offences had happened and this now means he will be a registered sex offender for the rest of his life.
We hope that anyone else who may have been abused by him now has the courage to come forward.”
