ROBERT BODEN FROM ST ALBANS SENTENCED FOR DECADE-LONG CHILD ABUSE IN MULTIPLE COUNTIES

In a case that has shocked the local community and beyond, Robert Boden, a resident of Trumpington Drive in St Albans, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term for the horrific abuse of a young girl spanning over ten years. The abuse, which began when the victim was only three years old, took place across four different counties, including near Tidworth, highlighting the extensive and disturbing nature of Boden's criminal activities.

During the proceedings at Winchester Crown Court, it was revealed that Boden sexually assaulted the young girl multiple times during the late 1980s and early 1990s. The court heard that Boden engaged in a pattern of sexual misconduct, touching the girl over her clothing and coercing her into touching him and participating in sexual acts. The victim, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, was subjected to this abuse repeatedly, with each incident occurring at least five times, according to court records.

Prosecutor Robert Griffiths emphasized the severity of Boden’s actions, noting that his crimes were exacerbated by his deliberate efforts to isolate the victim, who was extremely vulnerable at the time. The court was told that Boden’s manipulation and abuse had a lasting impact on the girl, who now suffers from nightmares and flashbacks, and feels that her childhood was stolen from her. The trauma inflicted by Boden’s actions has left deep scars, both emotional and psychological.

It was also disclosed that Boden had a prior conviction in 2009 for possessing child abuse images. Since that time, authorities closely monitored his internet activity, but he had not been involved in any further sexual offences until his recent arrest and trial. Despite this, the court recognized the danger he posed, especially given his history and ongoing preoccupations.

Judge Susan Evans QC described Boden as a dangerous offender and sentenced him to an immediate term of eight years in prison, with an additional four years on extended licence. The judge explicitly stated that Boden’s fixation on teenage girls and his history of sexual misconduct placed the community at significant risk of further harm. As part of his sentence, Boden is required to register as a sex offender for life and is prohibited from working with children or vulnerable adults in any capacity.

Throughout the criminal process, Boden showed no remorse for his actions, further underscoring the gravity of his crimes. The court’s decision reflects the serious nature of his offences and the ongoing threat he poses to society.