ROBERT LANCASTER FROM BARGOED SENTENCED FOR HISTORIC SEXUAL OFFENCES IN CARDIFF

In September 2013, Robert Lancaster, a resident of Danygraig in Bargoed, was sentenced to a total of 15 years in prison after admitting to a series of serious historical sexual offences. The crimes, which included three counts of rape, were described by Judge Philip Richards as an "appalling catalogue of offences" that had profoundly impacted the victims involved.

Judge Richards emphasized the severity of Lancaster’s actions, stating that his selfish and self-gratifying behaviour had left four victims unable to enjoy the normal confidence and trust that most people take for granted. The court was told that one victim had disclosed to police that they had been indecently assaulted by Lancaster on "hundreds of occasions." When asked about his crimes, Lancaster reportedly dismissed the allegations, claiming that nothing could be proved and that he would "never spend a day inside."

At the time of the hearing, Lancaster, aged 58, appeared via video link at Cardiff Crown Court. He had previously pleaded guilty to three counts of rape, four counts of indecent assault, and two counts of gross indecency. The charges only came to light after one of the victims contacted the police, which prompted others to come forward with their own accounts of abuse.

During the proceedings, prosecutor Lucy Crowther detailed the impact of Lancaster’s crimes through victim impact statements. One victim expressed that their childhood and innocence had been stolen, leaving them with difficulty trusting others, especially men. Another victim described how the abuse had affected their sleep, causing nightmares, while a third reported feeling mentally drained and physically impacted by the trauma. A fourth victim expressed hope that they could move forward with their life following Lancaster’s sentencing.

Defense attorney Jane Rowley highlighted Lancaster’s fragile mental state prior to his guilty plea, noting that his remorse was evident. She also pointed out that Lancaster had been of good character before these offences and had suffered significant health issues, including a triple heart bypass in 2007. Additionally, she mentioned that Lancaster had experienced a marital breakdown and had become socially isolated.

Following the sentencing, Judge Richards ordered Lancaster to notify authorities of the details required under the Sexual Offences Act within three days of his release from prison, with this obligation continuing indefinitely. Lancaster was also prohibited from working with children and was placed under a sexual offences prevention order to prevent any future offending.

Overall, the court’s decision reflects the gravity of Lancaster’s crimes and the lasting impact on his victims, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding and justice in cases of sexual abuse.