ROBERT BLAKE FROM LEVENSHULME JAILED FOR SEXUAL HARASSMENT IN SOUTH MANCHESTER

In June 2014, a disturbing case of sexual harassment involving a cyclist who targeted women in the south Manchester area has culminated in a significant legal sentence. The individual at the center of this case, Robert Blake, a 28-year-old married man and father of one, has been convicted and sentenced to serve time in prison for his troubling conduct.

Blake, who has a long history of sexual offenses spanning over a decade, was responsible for stalking and harassing lone women in various neighborhoods including Levenshulme, Fallowfield, and Didsbury. His modus operandi involved cycling through these areas, making obscene remarks, and intimidating women who were out jogging or cycling alone. His predatory behavior persisted over many years, with authorities noting that he had four prior convictions dating back to his teenage years in Shropshire, where he was involved in similar assaults involving pursuit and attack of women.

The recent incidents came to light when Blake was observed cycling after a female student in the vicinity of Manchester’s student land. His aggressive pursuit culminated in him barging into her building and staring at her groin while hissing, “I want to see it,” an act that left the victim terrified and distressed. This particular incident was instrumental in his arrest and subsequent prosecution.

Following his apprehension, Blake was charged with 14 counts, including harassment and sexual touching. During the trial at Manchester Crown Court, it was revealed that Blake’s actions were part of a disturbing pattern of behavior. Although he was cleared of 13 of the charges due to insufficient evidence of intent to commit sexual assault in those cases, he was convicted of one specific incident. This involved Blake cutting in front of a woman’s bike outside her apartment in Fallowfield on August 21, then following her into the building’s vestibule, where he approached her closely and engaged in vulgar sexual language.

Prosecutor Adrian Farrow described Blake’s demeanor during the incident as “deadly serious,” emphasizing the threat he posed to the victim, who was described as “very frightened.” The woman managed to escape into her flat but expressed fear that Blake might return, knowing her residence.

Blake’s history of offending was further discussed during the trial, with the court noting his difficulty in controlling a “high sex drive,” which was exacerbated by alcohol consumption. His defense attorney, David Bruce, expressed remorse on Blake’s behalf, stating that his client felt shame for his actions.

Judge Michael Henshell sentenced Blake to two years in prison, with an extended license period of five years. The judge described Blake’s conduct as “extremely troubling” and highlighted the pattern of behavior as a cause for serious concern, reflecting the ongoing threat posed by individuals with such histories of sexual misconduct.