ROBERT WINTER JAILED FOR SEX OFFENCE IN ALMONDBURY NEAR HUDDERSFIELD

In a case that has shocked the local community of Almondbury near Huddersfield, Robert Winter has been sentenced to a prison term of 32 months following his conviction for a serious sexual offence involving a 13-year-old girl. The incident, which took place in 2012, was brought to light after the girl confided in friends about her experience, leading to police involvement and a court trial at Leeds Crown Court.

Prosecutor Nigel Hamilton outlined the details of the case, revealing that Winter, then aged 23, had established a relationship with the young girl through mutual acquaintances. It was established that Winter was fully aware of her age when they exchanged contact information, and he subsequently sent her messages expressing admiration, calling her beautiful and sexy, and even asking her out on dates. As their communication continued, the girl and Winter exchanged messages in which they professed love for each other, further complicating the case.

The court heard that their first meeting at Winter’s flat in Almondbury was marked by a somewhat innocent beginning. The girl mentioned that her bed at home was lumpy, prompting Winter to carry her to his bedroom, claiming that his bed was softer. During this visit, they shared a kiss, but the girl stopped Winter from going further. Despite this, she returned the following day, and on their way into the flat, Winter was called a “paedo” by passersby, a term he denied, asserting that he loved her “to bits.”

Once inside his flat, the situation escalated. It was reported that Winter sexually touched the girl and even gave her a love bite. The girl, who considered Winter her boyfriend at the time, did not object to his actions. However, she later confided in friends about what had happened, which ultimately led to the authorities being informed. The girl’s account was supported by evidence presented in court, and Winter was charged and convicted of sexual activity with a minor.

During the trial, Winter denied any attraction to children and claimed that the girl’s allegations were fabricated, asserting that he had never had a relationship with her. His legal representative, Ken Green, described Winter as an immature young man with low self-esteem and naivety, seeking affection in the wrong way. Green also explained that since the offence was uncovered, Winter had felt compelled to leave Huddersfield and start anew. He had since become engaged to a new partner, and Green argued that sending Winter to prison would serve no beneficial purpose for society.

At sentencing, the court ordered Winter, now 25 and residing at Maple Tree Avenue, Selby, to serve 32 months in prison. Additionally, he was mandated to register as a sex offender for life, reflecting the severity of his crime and the importance of community safety.