In a sobering development, Robert Kalton, an 88-year-old former Trowbridge school teacher, has been handed a four-year prison sentence for non-recent child sex offences. The sentencing was delivered at Salisbury Crown Court on February 15, marking a pivotal moment in a harrowing case that has shaken the local community.
Residing on Ashby Road in Burton upon Trent, Kalton faced justice for his abhorrent actions during his tenure as a teacher and church choirmaster at St Augustine’s Roman Catholic School.
Having previously pleaded guilty to four counts of gross indecency with a boy under the age of 14 and two counts of gross indecency with a man over the age of 16, Kalton’s sentencing today shed further light on the severity of his crimes.
The court revealed that Kalton received a four-year sentence for one count of indecent assault on a boy under 14. Additionally, he was handed sentences of 20 weeks, two years, and two years, respectively, for three further counts of indecent assault on boys under 14. For two counts of indecent assault on a man aged 16 or over, he received one-year sentences, all to be served concurrently.
In a damning testament to the extent of his depravity, Kalton was also ordered to remain on the sex offenders register for life.
During the proceedings, the court learned that Kalton’s despicable conduct had not gone unnoticed. He had already been serving a four-year prison sentence for similar offences, with a total of 32 sexual offences recorded against at least six young boys. These horrifying acts spanned a distressing period of two decades, with Kalton’s predatory behavior casting a long shadow over various locations across the UK.
The victim in this particular case bravely came forward to Wiltshire Police in December 2019, recounting a series of abuses endured during his formative years between the ages of 11 and 16. In a heart-wrenching statement to the court, the victim underscored the profound betrayal of trust perpetrated by Kalton, stating, “He stole his victim’s childhoods and changed their lives forever.”
Detective Sergeant Rachel Winter of Wiltshire Police echoed the sentiments of the victim, emphasizing Kalton’s status as a “sexual predator” who exploited his authority to inflict irreparable harm. She commended the courage of the victim for stepping forward and emphasized the unwavering commitment of law enforcement to investigate non-recent offences and support survivors throughout the legal process.
In light of this case, Wiltshire Police reaffirmed their dedication to combating sexual abuse and urged individuals to report crimes, irrespective of how much time has elapsed, through their website or emergency hotline.
