ROBERT COULSON THE CRAWLEY PAEDOPHILE'S SHOCKING CRIMES AND SENTENCE REDUCTION

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the Sussex town of Crawley, Robert Coulson, a former barber, has been at the center of a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against young girls. Coulson, who resided on Crawley Lane in the Pound Hill area, was convicted of 14 separate counts of sexual abuse involving minors, with the crimes spanning over four decades. His initial sentencing in March at Lewes Crown Court resulted in a 10-year prison term, but recent developments have seen that sentence reduced by two years following an appeal.

Four young victims, some as young as nine years old, came forward to accuse Coulson of a series of sickening attacks. These allegations, which date back up to 40 years, painted a disturbing picture of a man who had concealed his predatory behavior from his family and the wider community. Coulson vehemently denied all accusations during his trial, but the jury found him guilty of all charges.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Anthony Niblett described Coulson as someone who had 'lived a lie,' emphasizing that he had kept his offending secret from his wife, his two sons, and other family members. The judge's remarks underscored the betrayal of trust involved in the case and the need to protect the public from such a dangerous individual.

However, the appeal court, comprising Lord Justice Maurice Kay, Mr Justice McCombe, and Mr Justice Sweeney, reviewed Coulson’s case and the length of his sentence. The lawyers representing Coulson argued that, although each individual sentence was justified, the total combined sentence of 10 years was excessive given Coulson’s age, his good character, and the respect he had in the community. They contended that such a lengthy sentence was disproportionate and sought a reduction.

After careful consideration, the judges agreed that the original sentence was too harsh, especially considering Coulson’s age and personal circumstances. Lord Justice Maurice Kay acknowledged that Coulson’s advanced age was a relevant factor in the decision to reduce his prison term. Ultimately, the court quashed the original 10-year sentence and replaced it with a total term of eight years, citing the need for a balanced approach that considers both the severity of the crimes and the defendant’s personal context.

In a related and equally disturbing episode from April 2008, Coulson, then aged 73, was dubbed the 'Demon Barber of Crawley' after being convicted of even more disturbing acts. He had lured young girls—some under 14—into his salon with jokes and gifts, only to subject them to further abuse. The court heard that Coulson would show the girls X-rated movies while cutting their hair, then force them to strip and perform sex acts on him. These heinous acts led to his imprisonment for ten years.

His arrest followed complaints from two of his victims, and it was revealed that unsuspecting parents would leave their children with Coulson while they went shopping in the town. Judge Anthony Niblett condemned Coulson’s long history of deception, stating, “For at least 35 years you have lived a lie, but the truth has now been exposed. Your whole life has been a lie. You have been lying to your wife, your two sons, and your wider family. The public must be protected from you.”

These cases have cast a dark shadow over Crawley, highlighting the dangers posed by individuals who hide their true nature behind a facade of normalcy. Coulson’s crimes and subsequent legal proceedings continue to serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and safeguarding vulnerable members of society.