ROBERT OAKLEY SENTENCED IN FORDINGBRIDGE FOR INDECENT EXPOSURE
Robert Oakley, a 51-year-old resident of Lyons Street, Southampton, was convicted of exposing himself to two women on separate occasions while they were walking their dogs in Fordingbridge.The court heard that Oakley followed his victims before pleasuring himself in front of them on Frog Lane.
Both women were left feeling "badly frightened." Although Oakley continues to deny the two charges of indecent exposure, after a three-day trial at Southampton Crown Court, he was found guilty.
Prosecutor Siobhan Linsley highlighted that the offences were aggravated by Oakley's prior record.
In his defense, Gaylene Coles explained that her client had experienced a series of traumatic childhood events and had issues with alcoholism in the past.
During the sentencing, Judge Gary Burrell QC described Oakley’s conduct in court as "quite belligerent and arrogant." He remarked, "This sort of offence can sometimes lead to contact offences.
You badly frightened both of these women.
One was quite robust about it but the other was clearly frightened and scared by your behaviour.
She was upset." The judge emphasized that while Oakley had previously exposed himself to women, the recent offenses were further aggravating factors, especially given that the incidents took place when the victims were alone and vulnerable with no one around.
Oakley was sentenced to six months in prison for the offences committed on January 25 and 28 last year, and he was also subjected to a five-year restraining order against one of the victims.
Additionally, he is required to register as a sex offender for seven years.
PC Sarah Taylor commented on the case, expressing gratitude to the victims.
She said, "We would like to thank those women who came forward and told us what happened to them.
Being subjected to something like this can be very distressing and shocking, sometimes leaving a victim unsure of what to do or how to report this kind of thing to us.
We absolutely want to receive your call and bring offenders like Oakley to justice.
If it’s happening now, always call 999." The police spokesperson added that the community’s efforts were crucial in stopping Oakley's behavior and ensuring justice was served.
