Robert Whitfield Gaskell

A man from Ashton-under-Lyne has been sentenced to four years in prison for child sexual exploitation offences after targeting an underage teenage girl. Robert Whitfield Gaskell, born on 6 December 1991, pleaded guilty to charges including engaging in sexual activity with a child under 16 at Manchester Crown Court on Minshull Street.

The offences began in May 2018 when Gaskell struck up a relationship with the teenage victim, fully aware that she was a school child and underage. He manipulated her by offering drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes, using these substances to gain her trust and isolate her from her friends and family. This grooming behaviour enabled him to exploit her sexually, forming a predatory relationship that preyed on her vulnerability.

Thankfully, the victim demonstrated remarkable courage by coming forward with evidence, which prompted a thorough investigation by Greater Manchester Police. Following her report, Gaskell was apprehended and held accountable for his actions. The court not only imposed a four-year custodial sentence but also issued an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order to protect the public from future harm. Additionally, Gaskell is required to sign the Sex Offenders' Register for life, and a five-year restraining order has been put in place to safeguard the victim.

Detective Constable Masheter of the Phoenix Tameside Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) Team commented on the case, stating: 'Child Sexual Exploitation takes place in many forms. In this case the defendant commenced a sexual relationship with the victim, knowing full well that she was a school child.' He further praised the victim's bravery: 'I would like to thank the victim for having the courage to report these matters to Police and hope this result has provided her with some justice when coming to terms with what she has experienced because of the defendant’s actions.' This case underscores Greater Manchester Police's commitment to pursuing those who exploit minors for sexual gain, as part of the ongoing Project Phoenix initiative aimed at combating CSE in the region.

The sentencing occurred on 15 March 2021, highlighting the authorities' swift response to such serious crimes. Greater Manchester Police, through their dedicated teams, continue to investigate and dismantle networks of exploitation, ensuring that perpetrators like Gaskell face the full weight of the law.