A man has been jailed for multiple non-recent sexual offences dating back as far as 2004.
Larry Roberts, 69, was handed a prison sentence of eight years and six months, was placed on the Sex Offenders register for life and served an indefinite restraining order after appearing at Lincoln Crown Court on Monday 12 January.
Additionally, he will be prohibited from working with children or vulnerable adults for life.
Roberts, of Seagry Hill, Sutton Benger, Chippenham, formerly of Boston, Lincolnshire, had pleaded not guilty to five counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child aged 13 to 15, and the sexual assault of a child by intentionally touching private areas of her body to which she did not consent. However, with the prosecution and his victims having presented such robust evidence, on 26 November 2025 a jury found him guilty of all six charges.
The court heard how he intentionally engaged in sexual activity, namely masturbation, in a place where he could be observed on at least three occasions by a child under the age of 16, for the purpose of obtaining sexual gratification. The children subjected to these acts were between just 13- and 15-years-old when the offences took place between 2004 and 2010.
The life-long impact of his sickening behaviour was underscored in both victim statements read out in court, which described the profound impact these non-recent events have had on both victims’ mental health going adulthood.
The officer in charge of this case, Detective Constable Sarah Oliver from the Protecting Vulnerable People Unit, said: “The complainants in this case have lived with the impact of these events throughout their adult lives. It was through their resilience and determination that they found the courage to come forward and ensure their voices were heard. This journey has been incredibly challenging for both of them, but I hope this outcome has provided a sense of validation. This recognition is profoundly significant for them, affirming that what they were subjected to had truly happened.
“I am immensely proud of them. Their strength in standing tall and speaking out deserves acknowledgment and considerable respect.
“I want to reassure anyone who may have questions about historical incidents: the passage of time should never prevent victims from coming forward. If you choose to speak out, you will be listened to, believed, and supported throughout the entire process.
“Our commitment is to do everything possible to gather strong, reliable evidence that meets judicial standards, so we can pursue the justice you deserve.”
