ROBERT HINTON FROM ASHTON-ON-RIBBLE JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT AND DANGEROUS DRIVING IN HULL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Robert Hinton, a 37-year-old former lorry driver from Ashton-on-Ribble, was convicted and sentenced for a series of serious crimes that spanned several years and locations. The case unfolded with allegations of sexual assault against a young girl from Hull, as well as a dangerous driving incident that took place while Hinton was on bail.

According to court proceedings, the initial offense involved Hinton sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl in Hull. The assault occurred during what was described as a “nasty episode,” during which Hinton allegedly tickled the girl’s back over her clothing before crossing the line into sexual assault. Prosecutor Michele Stuart-Lofthouse detailed that Hinton’s hand went between her legs, an act that left the young girl feeling “distinctively uncomfortable” and suffering psychological trauma that would affect her for years to come.

Throughout the investigation, it was revealed that Hinton had pressured his victim into silence, coercing her to keep the assault a secret for an extended period. The girl, who was only 12 at the time, did not disclose the abuse immediately. Instead, she confided in a friend at college, which eventually led her to tell her parents. The revelation prompted police to arrest Hinton, who initially denied the charges of sexual assault of a child under the age of 13, which were alleged to have occurred between 2007 and 2010.

Following a trial at Hull Crown Court last week, Hinton was found guilty of the sexual assault. The court’s verdict marked a significant moment in the pursuit of justice for the young victim. However, the case did not end there. While Hinton was on bail in November 2016, he committed another serious offense. During an argument, he trapped a girl’s arm in a door, an act classified as common assault. Hinton then fled the scene, leading police on a high-speed chase that reached speeds of up to 90 miles per hour.

The police pursuit culminated on the M55 motorway, where officers used a stinger device to deflate Hinton’s tires and bring the vehicle to a stop. During the court hearing, Judge Jeremy Richardson QC described Hinton’s driving as “dangerous,” noting that he overtook vehicles multiple times in reckless circumstances and drove through a built-up town center at excessive speeds, endangering pedestrians and other motorists. The judge emphasized the gravity of Hinton’s behavior, stating that he behaved “disgracefully” and showed a blatant disregard for public safety.

As a result of his actions, Hinton was sentenced to a total of three years in prison—two years for the sexual assault and one year for dangerous driving. Additionally, he was disqualified from driving for two and a half years and will be required to pass an extended driving test before regaining his license. The court also imposed a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO) on Hinton, which will remain in effect for ten years, restricting his contact with minors and monitoring his behavior to prevent further offenses.

Hinton’s recent residence was listed as Ashton-on-Ribble, and his criminal conduct has left a lasting impact on the victims and the community. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and justice in addressing crimes involving vulnerable individuals and dangerous driving behaviors.