Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Friday 7th March 2025, at 15:30hrs
Robert Cross, a 36-year-old registered sex offender from Wrenthorpe, Wakefield, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for multiple counts of child sexual abuse.
The verdict, delivered at Leeds Crown Court, follows a trial that exposed his horrific actions against a young male victim between 2008 and 2011.
Cross, of Queens Drive, was found guilty of seven counts of sexual activity with a child.
The victim, showing immense bravery, reported the abuse to police in 2021, leading to Cross’s arrest later that year.
Crucial evidence in the case included a 2016 Facebook message where Cross admitted to the offences and attempted to distance himself from the victim.
This digital footprint played a key role in securing the conviction during the trial in February, where a jury found him guilty on all charges.
In addition to the nine-year custodial sentence, Cross received an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and will remain on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
Detective Sergeant Will Denton, formerly of Wakefield District Child Safeguarding, praised the victim’s courage and emphasized the gravity of Cross’s crimes.
“Firstly, and most importantly, I want to thank the victim in this case for his immense bravery in coming forward to report the abuse he suffered, as well as his strength and dignity throughout the criminal justice process,” he stated.
“Cross preyed upon and exploited him knowing that he was a vulnerable child, and I hope the sentence handed down today serves as a clear reminder that this abhorrent behaviour will not be tolerated.”
DS Denton further highlighted Cross’s danger to children, stating, “I am in no doubt that Cross, is a danger to children. Twice, he has been found guilty of exploiting vulnerable children. The streets of Wakefield and West Yorkshire are safer with him behind bars.”
He urged anyone who has experienced similar abuse to come forward, assuring them of police support and a commitment to securing justice.
“You will be listened to. You will be taken seriously. Specially trained officers will support you throughout the process. They can also refer you to further help and support if needed.”
G2K INCIDENT WATCH 