Huddersfield Man Jailed For Child Sexual Offences

Friday, 10 February 2023 14:32

A Huddersfield man has been jailed for more than six years for historic child sex offences.

Robert Harper, age 55, from Skelmanthorpe in Huddersfield appeared at Leeds Crown Court today (Friday, 10 February) for sentencing after being found guilty at trial yesterday (Thursday, 09 February).

Harper was sentenced to six years, six months in prison for four counts of indecent assault on a boy.

He will also be required to sign on the sex offenders register for life.

The offences occurred between 2001 and 2003 and were reported to Kirklees Police in 2020 after the victim came forward as an adult.

Specialist safeguarding officers began an investigation following the report and later arrested Harper.

Investigating Officer Detective Constable Yvonne Brear of Kirklees Child Safeguarding Unit, said: “We welcome the sentence given to Harper today for serious sexual offences committed against a young and vulnerable boy.
“I want to praise the victim’s courage in coming forward as an adult and reporting the abuse he suffered at the hands of Harper.
“His bravery in making that initial report allowed us to fully investigate Harper’s offending and make sure he was put before the courts to answer for what he did.

She added: “I hope Harper’s sentencing can give the victim some closure, and the case demonstrates to victims of sexual offences that it is never too late to contact us if you have been a victim of such abuse.
“We will always listen and put your needs at the heart of our investigations.”

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