BRIGHTON PAEDOPHILE DRAG QUEEN ROBERT CLOTHIER CAUGHT IN POLICE STING AT WIMBLEDON STATION

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community, Robert Clothier, a 37-year-old known for his drag performances under the alias Lady James, was apprehended by police officers at Wimbledon train station in south-west London. The arrest was the culmination of an undercover operation targeting his online communications, where he had arranged to meet a father, known as ‘Mark,’ and his two young children, aged 8 and 11, for sexual encounters.

Clothier’s possession at the time of arrest included a variety of items that further underscored his intentions. Among the items found on him were glow-in-the-dark condoms flavored with chocolate, pink children’s underwear purchased from Primark, Easter eggs intended for each child, heart-shaped hairbands, and a Lego toy. These items, as detailed in court proceedings, were part of his preparations for the planned meeting, which he believed would involve sexual activity with the children.

The police operation was set up after online chats revealed Clothier’s disturbing thoughts and intentions. During these conversations, he admitted to having ‘naughty thoughts’ about his own nieces and nephews, although he claimed he had never acted on these impulses to avoid hurting his family. He expressed that he was ‘turned on’ by the pink underwear and had specifically chosen a set he considered ‘sexy.’ When questioned about his stockpiling of condoms, he explained it was because he believed it was ‘best to be prepared.’

Prosecutor Mervyn Burton outlined that Clothier had expressed a desire to meet ‘Mark’ and the children, stating that he was excited and felt ‘honoured’ to do so. He also indicated that if the meeting went well, it would not be a one-time occurrence. The court was shown evidence of online chat logs from March of the previous year, which revealed Clothier’s explicit thoughts and intentions.

Further investigation led police to his Brighton residence, where a search uncovered a disturbing collection of child pornography. Among the images were 18 cartoon depictions of fathers abusing their sons, highlighting the extent of his illegal interests.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Deborah Taylor described Clothier’s actions as serious and concerning. She noted that the chat logs clearly demonstrated his interest in engaging in sexual activity with children and his efforts to prepare for such encounters. The judge emphasized that Clothier had bought underwear for the daughter, whom he believed to be 11, and had purchased other gifts to make himself more acceptable to the children.

While acknowledging that Clothier had no prior convictions and was considered to have been of good character before these events, Judge Taylor stressed the gravity of his offences. She sentenced him to a total of 26 months in prison.

Clothier’s defense attorney, Gareth Morgan, acknowledged his client’s troubled background, which he claimed contributed to his inappropriate interests. Morgan stated that Clothier had been honest about his guilt and that he doubted he would have harmed the children if the meeting had taken place. He also highlighted that Clothier had led a previously blameless life and had not been involved in similar offences before.

In addition to his prison sentence, Clothier was ordered to forfeit and have destroyed his computer and all indecent images found therein. The court also imposed a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, restricting his access to children under 16 and internet use. Furthermore, he is required to register as a sex offender, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

It is noteworthy that Clothier, who is based in Brighton, has previously been involved in charity work for the Brighton Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transsexual (LGBT) Pride organization, which adds a layer of tragic irony to his criminal conduct. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals with hidden predatory tendencies, even within communities that promote acceptance and diversity.