Robert Peter Bradley

Robert Peter Bradley, aged 70 and residing in Halifax, West Yorkshire, has been sentenced to five years in prison for historic child sex offences committed in Kendal, Cumbria, during the 1990s. The case, which came to light through the bravery of a victim who reported the abuse decades later, highlights the ongoing efforts by authorities to address long-standing sexual crimes against children.

Bradley was convicted at Carlisle Crown Court following a trial where a jury found him guilty last month. The offences involved gross indecency with a child and indecent assault on a child under the age of 14 years. These acts took place in Kendal in the 1990s, demonstrating the enduring impact of such crimes and the importance of victims coming forward, no matter how much time has passed.

In addition to his custodial sentence, Bradley was issued with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order to restrict his behaviour and protect the public upon his release. The court proceedings were handled professionally by Cumbria Police, with Detective Constable Matt McFall of South Cumbria CID commending the victim's courage. DC McFall stated: "I would like to commend the courage and integrity of the victim for coming forward and putting trust in Cumbria Police to deal with this case sensitively and professionally. I am aware that it requires a great deal of bravery for people to come forward in cases such as this, particularly when the events occurred a long time ago." He further noted that the case should encourage other victims of sexual offences to report them.

The sentencing took place in June 2017, marking a significant milestone in delivering justice for the victim. This case underscores the commitment of the judicial system and police forces like Cumbria Police to pursue historic sexual offences, ensuring perpetrators face consequences regardless of the passage of time. The Halifax Courier reported on the outcome, emphasising the trust and sensitivity involved in such investigations.