A 31-year-old man from Devon has been sentenced to eight-and-a-half years in prison for the abuse of a young girl and the possession of over a thousand images of child sexual abuse. Wade Robinson, of no fixed abode but with links to Tiverton and Exeter, pleaded guilty in November 2024 to five counts of possessing online child abuse material and three charges relating to the sexual assault of a child.
In addition to his prison sentence, Robinson will serve three-and-a-half years on license upon release and be subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order. He will also be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
The investigation into Robinson began when authorities linked him to an online account that uploaded a disturbing child abuse image. In 2022, officers executed a warrant at an address in Exeter, where Robinson attempted to flee by jumping out of a garden window and throwing his phone over a neighboring fence to destroy evidence. However, officers quickly apprehended him and recovered the phone, which contained more than a thousand images of child sexual abuse, including Category A material, which is the most serious form of abuse.
Further investigation revealed that a victim had come forward and disclosed that she had been abused by Robinson. Several images found on his phone were identified as being of the victim. The detailed examination of these images and other forensic evidence provided by investigators led to the successful conviction of Robinson on eight charges.
Detectives from Devon & Cornwall Police worked tirelessly to build a robust case, ensuring Robinson had little option but to plead guilty. This plea spared the victim from having to endure the trauma of a court trial.
Judge Adkin, who sentenced Robinson, commented on his refusal to engage with the court, stating that Robinson “has refused to engage with the court and is clearly an individual who doesn’t have the courage to face up to the fact he has committed these incidents of utter depravity.
Detective Constable Alex Powe, the lead investigator, condemned Robinson’s actions and praised the investigative team for their dedication in securing a conviction. Powe also commended the victim for her bravery in coming forward and emphasized the significant impact the case has had on her and her family.
Detective Constable Powe said: “Viewing child abuse material and engaging in criminal activity such as this is inexcusable, and we will work tirelessly to pursue and apprehend such offenders. This investigation showcases the importance of building a strong case through tenacious work, providing as much evidence as possible, leaving the offender little alternative other than to plead guilty.”
If you suspect a child is in immediate danger of sexual abuse or exploitation, call 999 immediately. For non-emergencies, report concerns via the Devon & Cornwall Police website or by calling 101. You can also report anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Support services are available through the Stop It Now charity for those with concerns about child sexual abuse, as well as Victim Support and Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit. These services provide confidential support and resources for both victims and concerned individuals.
For more information, visit the provided resources or contact the dedicated helplines.
