Man, 59, jailed for sexual assault of child in Eastleigh

A 59-year-old man from Chandler’s Ford has been jailed for three years and four months for the sexual assault of a child under 13, and indecent exposure.

Robert Grant, of Catmint Close, was sentenced at Southampton Crown Court on Friday (18 July).

The offences, for which he had previously pleaded guilty at the same court on Monday 17 March, took place in Eastleigh on Wednesday 27 March 2024.

As well as the time he will now spend behind bars, Grant has also been made subject to a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order, five-year restraining order and notification of requirement to register with the police indefinitely.

PC Jen Grace, of the Child Abuse Investigation Team, said: “I am pleased for the young victim in this case that justice has now been served for them and their family, and that Grant has now been placed behind bars, where he belongs.

“I’d also like to place on record my praise for the young victim in this case and the courage and determination they have shown throughout.

“Additionally, I’d like thank everyone who has been involved in this case, helping to secure this outcome. Their support and hard work has ensured this outcome.

“While I know this result won’t rid the victim and family of the memories of what Grant did, I truly hope it allows them to move forward, safe in the knowledge that he can no longer harm any other children.’

Directly addressing other victims of sex offences, PC Grace, said: “I really hope this sentence will reassure victims that they will be listened to when reporting similar incidents to us.

“We encourage other victims to come forward and speak to us. We take allegations of this nature extremely seriously and work hard to bring offenders to justice.

“This case should also be a very clear message to other offenders out there that we will always work tirelessly to ensure you are brought to justice.”

Anyone who has any concerns about child abuse should contact us on 101, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

We recognise that not everyone has the confidence to speak to police, but there is support services available that can help you if you are a victim of abuse.

Anyone who has experienced abuse in childhood, or is concerned about a child, can contact the NSPCC helpline, confidentially, on 0808 800 5000. Alternatively, you can email help@nspcc.org.uk. Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111.

As a survivor of sexual abuse, you’re entitled to support, whether you report the crime or not. You can access different types of support depending on how you’re feeling and what you decide to do next.

Please follow the below link for more information;

Support after rape and sexual assault | Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary