ROBERT BRATT FROM HAMBLE SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING TEENAGE GIRL

In December 2003, a disturbing case emerged involving Robert Bratt, a 54-year-old plumber from Hamble, Hampshire, who was sentenced to seven years in prison for a series of heinous crimes against a young girl. The court heard that Bratt engaged in a calculated campaign of grooming and manipulation, which he described to the victim as their 'little secret.'

Bratt's actions included offering bribes to the teenage girl to entice her into sexual activity. He persuaded her to pose for explicit photographs, which she feared would be circulated or sold. Additionally, he promised her diamond earrings if she agreed to lose her virginity to him, further demonstrating his predatory behavior.

The case was brought to light when the victim, after enduring immense emotional trauma, found the courage to report the abuse to the police. Prosecutor Andy Houston revealed that the girl confided in authorities that she relived her painful past every time someone touched her, highlighting the deep psychological scars inflicted by Bratt.

During a recorded interview, the young woman described her ongoing suffering, stating, 'He has destroyed my life. It’s the mental past I am going through now. It’s still up there. I can’t shut it out. I can’t forget it.' Her testimony underscored the profound impact of Bratt’s actions on her mental health.

Following his arrest, law enforcement officers uncovered a collection of letters and photographs that detailed Bratt’s disturbing fantasies involving young girls. Prosecutor Houston described these materials as 'too salacious' to be read aloud in court, but they provided crucial evidence of Bratt’s predatory mindset.

Bratt, who resides at Norbury Gardens, Hamble, admitted to 13 charges related to the abuse of the girl. His conviction resulted in a seven-year prison sentence, and he was also prohibited from working with children in the future. Furthermore, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

In passing sentence, Judge Christopher Leigh QC emphasized the importance of reviewing the evidence if Bratt’s case is considered by the Court of Appeal or the Parole Board. The judge instructed that the letters and photographs submitted as evidence should be examined to assess the full extent of Bratt’s misconduct.

During the proceedings, Francis Sheridan, representing Bratt, acknowledged that the defendant’s admission of guilt was the only mitigating factor in the case. The court’s decision underscores the severity of Bratt’s crimes and the lasting impact on his victim, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and justice in cases of sexual abuse involving minors.