ROBIN SOMERS FROM HORFIELD FOUND GUILTY OF SEXUAL OFFENCES INVOLVING BOYS IN BRISTOL

In a recent court ruling, a jury has convicted Robin Somers, a 26-year-old man from Bristol, of two counts of indecent assault involving young boys. The case, which has garnered significant attention, traces back to allegations that date to when Somers was himself a teenager, with the victims also being minors. The proceedings took place at Bristol Crown Court, where the jury carefully examined the evidence presented against him.

Initially, Somers faced a total of six charges related to sexual offences. However, the jury was instructed by the trial judge, Alan Large, to return a not guilty verdict on one particular count involving an allegation that Somers simulated sex with one of the complainants. This legal direction was given for reasons related to the specifics of the case and the evidence available. Despite this, the jury found Somers guilty of two of the remaining five charges involving a second boy, who testified that Somers had forced him to engage in sexual acts, some of which caused him significant pain.

Prosecutor Rupert Lowe addressed the court, revealing that the second victim described the abuse as feeling “secretive and exciting,” according to police reports. The allegations against Somers are said to have occurred during his early teenage years, a period when the victims were also minors. The court heard that the incidents had a lasting impact on the victims, with one describing the experience as deeply traumatic.

During his testimony, Somers stated that he was born and raised in Bristol. He recounted attending a school in Lockleaze before becoming a weekly boarder at a boarding school. He also disclosed that he was on medication as a child, having been diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia. Somers explained that he left school with seven GCSEs and initially pursued a motor mechanic course, which he did not complete. His personal history includes living with a girlfriend in Weston-super-Mare for a year before returning to live with his mother in Bristol.

In his defense, Virginia Cornwall, the defense solicitor, questioned Somers about the allegations involving the second boy. Somers responded, “I don’t recall anything. I didn’t do anything sexual at all to him,” indicating his denial of the accusations. The court also heard that there was a delay in reporting the alleged abuse, a common occurrence in such cases, as young victims often suppress memories or delay disclosure to avoid confronting painful experiences. Mr. Lowe explained that children may not remember specific dates or details clearly, which can complicate the investigation.

The sentencing date for Robin Somers has yet to be scheduled, and the court will determine the appropriate punishment based on the evidence and the severity of the offences. The case highlights the ongoing issues surrounding child sexual abuse and the importance of thorough judicial processes to ensure justice for victims.