PETER COX FROM BLACKBIRD LEYS SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN OXFORD

In August 2007, a man named Peter Cox, residing on Brambling Way in the Blackbird Leys area, was sentenced to four years in prison after admitting to the sexual assault of a 12-year-old girl. The charges stemmed from incidents that took place at the girl’s home on two separate occasions, spanning from June 2005 to April 2006.

Details of the case emerged during a court hearing at Oxford Crown Court, where prosecutor Jonathan Coode outlined the disturbing allegations. The victim, a young girl, confided in her mother in June of the previous year, revealing that Cox had touched her and a friend inappropriately. She further disclosed that Cox had sexually assaulted her during one of these encounters, with her friend present at the time. The girl was reportedly instructed by Cox not to disclose what had happened, a plea that she apparently followed until she felt safe enough to speak out.

During police interviews, Cox initially denied the allegations, claiming he could not understand why the girl would make such accusations against him. However, he later changed his plea and admitted to one count of assault of a child under 13 and another of sexual assault of a child under 13, leading to his conviction.

Representing Cox, defense lawyer Cameron Brown, a 47-year-old lorry driver with no prior criminal record, stated that Cox was not highly educated and that it might have taken him some time to fully comprehend the gravity of his actions. Brown emphasized that Cox was not in denial and acknowledged that his behavior was wrong. He also mentioned that Cox had been drinking alcohol at the time of the incidents, though the court was quick to dismiss this as a mitigating factor.

Judge Hall addressed the court, telling Brown that alcohol consumption was no justification for Cox’s conduct. The judge expressed his disapproval of Cox’s lack of understanding regarding appropriate behavior around teenage girls, stating, “He behaved entirely wrongly and he was entirely at fault.”

In sentencing Cox to four years behind bars, Judge Hall condemned his actions as a serious breach of trust and described the episodes as disgraceful. The judge also made it clear that Cox would be required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life, emphasizing the severity of his misconduct and the lasting impact it would have on the victim and the community.