Colchester: Man found guilty of non-recent sexual abuse

A man has been found guilty of non-recent sexual abuse thanks to the work of specialist officers.

The case has been investigated by our Child Abuse Investigation Team (CAIT) in the North of the county, who investigate the physical, sexual and psychological abuse of children.

Robert West, 67, of Whitehall Road, Colchester, stood trial at Ipswich Crown Court to face eight sexual offence charges, including indecent assault and indecency with a child.

He was arrested in March 2020 after offences against three victims were reported to Essex Police. They had taken place over a period of 15 years, dating back to the 1980s. The three people he abused had all been children at the time.

Following their reports, the victims were supported by our specialist officers alongside Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs) from our partner agencies.

A range of special measures were put in place to help support them as much as possible during the investigation and throughout the trial.

West’s trial concluded on Friday 28 April, where he was found guilty of all eight counts. He is due to be sentenced at the same court on Friday 30 June.

Investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Jeanine Atkins-Calver, said:

“Robert West is a calculated, abhorrent individual, who thought he could get away with preying on young and vulnerable children who trusted him.
“He instilled fear in those he targeted by threatening that they would not be believed or listened to. I’m incredibly proud and honoured to have been able to help prove him wrong.
“We know that reporting and speaking up is a huge decision to make, regardless of whether you’re a child or now an adult, and the bravery of the three individuals we’ve supported has ensured that West will stay where he belongs. I know their story will continue to inspire and encourage many others.
“These can be complex and lengthy investigations, so we often use special measures to help where we can. They include pre-recording statements, using screens in court and giving evidence remotely.
“When you’re ready to talk, please know that you will be listened to and you will be supported. If anyone is telling you otherwise, they’re the one that’s mistaken.”

Support is there for anyone affected by rape and sexual abuse, and no victim or survivor is alone.

If you need us, you can call us on 101 or report on our website. In an emergency, call 999.

Synergy Essex also provides specialist support for victims and survivors of rape and sexual abuse of all ages and all genders across Essex, Thurrock and Southend.

Synergy Essex is a partnership of rape and sexual abuse centres in Essex: CARA (Centre for Action on Rape and Abuse), SERICC Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Service and Southend-on-Sea Rape Crisis (SOS Rape Crisis).

Synergy Essex is independent from the police and provides support for victims and survivors throughout their journey.

Victims and survivors can self-refer, or be referred by a parent, partner, friend or professional and can access specialist emotional support, counselling and advocacy. For victims and survivors who report to the police, Synergy Essex provides an Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA) service, providing support throughout the criminal justice process.

For more information visit the Synergy Essex website.