ROBERT ANTCLIFFE FROM SITTINGBOURNE SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES IN KENT AND SHEFFIELD

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the local community, Robert Antcliffe, aged 58, of Sittingbourne, was brought before Sheffield Crown Court to face serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving a young boy. The offences, which date back to the 1970s, involved multiple acts of indecency and assault against a child under the age of 14, with the victim estimated to be around 10 years old at the time.

Antcliffe, who is currently a businessman owning a fruit and vegetable wholesale enterprise with a shop located in Sittingbourne, admitted to the charges during the court proceedings. The court heard that the abuse occurred both on the Isle of Sheppy in Kent and in Sheffield, highlighting the geographical span of the offences. The details revealed that the accused engaged in indecent assault, acts of gross indecency, and other inappropriate conduct towards the young boy during his teenage years.

Despite the gravity of the allegations, the court decided against imposing an immediate prison sentence. Instead, Judge handed down a community order requiring Antcliffe to complete 150 hours of unpaid work over the next year. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of five years, reflecting the seriousness of his crimes and the need for ongoing monitoring.

The police have expressed concern that Antcliffe may have committed similar offences against other children. They are urging any potential victims or individuals with relevant information to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. The case has raised questions about the extent of the abuse and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children from predators, regardless of their age or the passage of time.