Man jailed for 24 years for sexually abusing a child

A man who sexually abused a child over a six month period has been jailed.

Robert Lomas, 34 (30.03.90) of Hackney was jailed for 24 years at Wood Green Crown Court on 19 July after being found guilty at the same court on 2 May to three counts of rape, one count of assault by penetration and one count of sexual assault by touching.

The court heard how the child, who was known to Lomas, suffered the abuse between June and November 2023 at an address in Hackney. In November the child, a boy under the age of 13, came forward to speak to police and was supported by specially trained officers.

He gave a video recorded statement to detectives, detailing the abuse he had suffered at the hands of Lomas. A manhunt was launched and Lomas was arrested in Islington on 19 November – despite denying all of the allegations put to him, Lomas was charged the following day.

DC Tom Millard from the Central East Command Unit led the investigation and said: “I want to commend the bravery shown by this child in having the courage to come forward and report this abuse to police. They have shown immense strength and courage to support our investigation, and it is down to them that Lomas has been sentenced to lengthy spell in prison.

“I hope this reiterates the Met’s commitment to tackling sexual abuse and protecting vulnerable members of our society. I would urge anyone who has been the victim of abuse, to come forward and speak to police. You will be listened to and we will be able to provide you with the necessary support.”