Devon man jailed for child abuse offences

A Devon man has been sentenced to eight-and-a-half years in prison after admitting to sexually abusing a young girl and possessing hundreds of indecent images of children.

Wade Robinson, 31, of no fixed address but with links to Tiverton and Exeter, pleaded guilty in November 2024 to five charges of possessing child abuse material and three counts relating to the sexual assault of a child.

Following his release, Robinson will serve an additional three-and-a-half years on licence and will be subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order. He has also been placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.

Robinson was identified by investigators after child abuse material was uploaded to a website.

Officers executed a warrant at an address in Exeter in 2022, where Robinson attempted to escape by jumping out of a garden window and throwing his phone over a neighbouring fence in an effort to destroy evidence. However, he was detained in the garden, and officers recovered the phone with the assistance of a neighbour.

Despite refusing to provide officers with his PIN, digital forensics specialists were able to access the device, uncovering over a thousand indecent images, including the most serious Category A material.

Following Robinson’s arrest, a victim came forward and disclosed that she had been sexually abused by him. Investigators were able to link images found on his phone to the victim, leading to additional charges.

Detectives worked closely with the Crown Prosecution Service to build a strong case, ultimately securing eight charges against Robinson. His guilty plea meant the victim was spared the ordeal of a trial.

During sentencing, Judge Adkin noted Robinson’s refusal to attend court, stating, “He has refused to engage with the court and is not on the video link 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 praised the investigation, stating, “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 and leaving the offender little alternative other than to plead guilty.

“I am incredibly proud of the team and extremely proud of the courage of the victim in speaking out. She has been supported by her family and specially trained officers throughout, and I do not underestimate the impact this has had on her.”

If you suspect a child is in immediate danger from sexual abuse or exploitation, call 999. If it’s not an emergency, reports can be made via the Report button on the Devon & Cornwall Police website or by calling 101.

Anonymous reports can be made through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or online. 

The charity Stop It Now offers an anonymous helpline for those concerned about child sexual abuse, whether regarding their own thoughts or the behaviour of someone else.

Victims and their families can access support services through Victim Support or by calling 0808 1689 111. The Devon and Cornwall Police Victim Care Unit can also be contacted at 01392 475900.