ROBERT GILES FROM BRISTOL AND SPAIN SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES

In a significant case that spanned multiple countries and years of troubling allegations, Robert Giles, a 76-year-old man with ties to both Bristol and Spain, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for a series of heinous child sex offences. The crimes, which involved the sexual abuse of a young girl over nearly a decade, came to light after a report was made to authorities in 2020, prompting a thorough investigation.

Giles, whose address was listed as Calle Manuel de Falla in Algorfa, Spain, appeared before Bristol Crown Court on Friday, July 14, to face sentencing after pleading guilty to a total of 12 charges. These charges included four counts of sexually assaulting a child, one count of attempting to rape a child, a charge of raping a girl under the age of 13, and six counts of engaging in sexual activity with a minor.

The court was informed that Giles subjected the young girl to years of abuse at various locations, including in Bristol. The investigation revealed that the offences spanned a significant period, highlighting the prolonged nature of the abuse and the devastating impact on the victim.

The police investigation was initiated after a third party reported the allegations in 2020. Following this, two officers from Avon and Somerset Police traveled to Spain to carry out further inquiries under a European Investigation Order. During their visit, they seized several electronic devices, including laptops and mobile phones, which were believed to contain evidence related to the offences.

Giles was arrested in January of this year in Spain and was subsequently extradited back to the UK in May. Upon his arrival, he appeared before the court to face the charges. His guilty plea and subsequent sentencing reflect the severity of his crimes and the efforts of international cooperation in bringing him to justice.

In addition to his 15-year prison term, Giles was handed a 20-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which aims to restrict his activities and protect the community from further harm. Furthermore, he will be registered as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and public safety measures.