Devon Man Jailed for Child Abuse and Possessing Over 1,000 Sick Images
Wade Robinson Sentenced to 8½ Years
A 31-year-old man linked to Tiverton and Exeter has been slammed with an eight-and-a-half-year prison sentence for child sexual abuse and hoarding more than a thousand images of child exploitation. Wade Robinson, who has no fixed address, pleaded guilty in November 2024 to multiple charges, including five counts of possessing child abuse material and three charges of sexually assaulting a young girl.
Robinson Tried to Destroy Evidence
The chilling investigation kicked off when police traced Robinson to an online account uploading sick child abuse images. In 2022, officers raided an Exeter property where Robinson made a desperate escape attempt by leaping from a garden window and tossing his phone over a fence to wipe crucial evidence. Police quickly caught him and recovered the phone, which contained numerous Category A images – the most severe type of child abuse material.
Victim’s Courage Leads to Conviction
Further probes uncovered a victim who bravely stepped forward to say Robinson had abused her. Several vile images on his phone matched the victim’s evidence. The rigorous forensic work sealed Robinson’s fate, landing him convictions on eight serious charges.
Lifetime Punishment Awaits Robinson
On top of jail time, Robinson faces 3½ years on license and an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order. He’ll also be registered on the Sex Offenders Register for life. Judge Adkin slammed Robinson’s refusal to face the court properly, calling him a man lacking the courage to accept responsibility for his “utter depravity.”
“Viewing child abuse material and engaging in criminal activity such as this is inexcusable,” said Detective Constable Alex Powe, who led the investigation. “We will work tirelessly to pursue and catch offenders. This case shows the power of relentless police work in building a case strong enough to force a guilty plea.”
Report Concerns – Protect Children Now
- If a child is in immediate danger, call 999 without delay.
- For non-emergency concerns, contact Devon & Cornwall Police on 101 or visit their website.
- Report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Support for victims and those worried about abuse is available from charities like Stop It Now, Victim Support, and Devon & Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit, offering confidential help and advice.
