ROBERT SHORE FROM CHARD SENTENCED FOR RAPE OF VULNERABLE GIRLS IN SOMERSET

In a case that has shocked the community of Chard and the wider Somerset area, Robert Shore, aged 31, of Crowshute Flats in Crowshute, was convicted of heinous crimes involving the sexual assault and rape of vulnerable and disabled young women. The offences, which spanned from 2001 to 2005, came to light after a detailed investigation and a subsequent trial at Taunton Crown Court.

Shore was accused of targeting girls and women who were particularly vulnerable due to their age, disabilities, or learning difficulties. The allegations included multiple instances of rape and sexual assault, with some victims subjected to repeated attacks over a period of several years. The court heard that Shore’s criminal activities extended beyond the local area, with one victim alleging that she was assaulted in Yeovil as well.

Throughout the trial, Shore maintained his innocence, claiming that his victims were conspiring against him. However, the evidence presented was overwhelming, and the jury found him guilty of five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. The judge, David Ticehurst, emphasized the disturbing nature of the crimes, noting that it was no coincidence that all three victims were vulnerable, young, and had a history of disabilities or learning difficulties.

Judge Ticehurst addressed Shore directly during sentencing, stating, “On November 14, you were convicted of five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. Your offending took place over a period of four years. Some were multiple incident rapes against the same victim. You falsely accused them of being in a conspiracy against you. Each victim was vulnerable in their own particular way.”

The judge further expressed his condemnation of Shore’s actions, highlighting the emotional and psychological toll inflicted on the victims. “I have seen the victim personal statements, and it is abundantly clear the stress and ongoing problems your offending has caused and continues to cause. You get no credit as you forced your victims to relive their ordeals,” he said.

As a result of his convictions, Shore was sentenced to a total of 20 years in prison. Additionally, he received an extended license period of five years, meaning he will be under supervision for a significant time after his release. The court also imposed a lifelong sexual harm prevention order and mandated that Shore be registered as a sex offender. Judge Ticehurst concluded by warning that Shore’s pattern of targeting vulnerable women marked him as a significantly dangerous individual who posed a continuing threat to society.