The Wisbech Paedophile from Cambridgeshire, Robert Codling, who sexually abused children for more than a decade has been jailed. Robert Codling, 58, of Princes Road, Wisbech, targeted girls, a court was told.
His victims were abused at an address in the town over a 12-year period. During this time, Robert Codling would openly perform sexual acts on himself in front of the children, and would touch them sexually, calling it “playfighting”.
After more than a decade of abuse, one victim confided in someone close to her, who then reported it to the police. Robert Codling denied the allegations.
However, on Thursday, February 9 at Cambridge Crown Court he was found guilty of six counts of assaulting a girl under 13 by touching, engaging in sexual activity in presence of a child, and exposure. He was sentenced to eight years and two months in prison.
DC Melanie Bull said: “No sentence will ever erase what happened to the victims, but I hope they will be able to find some closure from this traumatic period in their young lives. Tackling child abuse is a priority for us and we are working hard every day to bring offenders like Robert Codling to justice.”
People who are concerned someone may have been convicted of a sex offence, and could be posing a risk to someone, can apply for disclosure information through Sarah’s Law. As well as this, anyone who looks out for the welfare of a child can make an enquiry, this can include parents, carers, guardians, extended family, friends and neighbours.
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.