In a significant breakthrough, detectives have successfully secured justice for a woman who endured sexual abuse as a child over 40 years ago. The victim bravely came forward in March 2021, shedding light on the horrifying experiences she endured during her time at a primary school in Islington in the mid-1980s.
The victim, whose identity remains protected, revealed that she had been subjected to rape and sexual assault by an older man, whom she identified as Robert MacLennan. MacLennan, who served as the school’s groundskeeper and resided on the premises, subjected the young victim to this heinous abuse for approximately two years.
Upon receiving the report, dedicated officers immediately launched an investigation. In April 2021, MacLennan was arrested and subsequently admitted to sexually assaulting the victim. However, he vehemently denied the accusation of rape.
Undeterred, the detectives worked to build a compelling case against MacLennan. They sought out additional witnesses and collected their accounts, bolstering the evidence against the perpetrator. In May 2022, this extensive evidence was submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service, resulting in MacLennan being charged with multiple offenses.
The case eventually proceeded to trial at the esteemed Snaresbrook Crown Court. On September 28, 2023, justice was finally served as MacLennan was found guilty. The court sentenced him on January 24 to 15 years’ imprisonment, ensuring he pays for the terrible crimes he committed.
Detective Sergeant Barbara Siembida, the lead investigator on the case, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome. She stated, “I am pleased that the victim of MacLennan’s awful crimes has finally obtained the justice she deserves. He exploited his position of trust to target a defenceless child, and it is only right that he faces a significant period behind bars.”
Siembida further emphasised the importance of this case for other survivors of non-recent sexual abuse. She wanted to convey a clear message that law enforcement takes such allegations seriously and remains committed to pursuing justice for victims by following the evidence trail to hold offenders accountable.
Convicted on two counts of rape and seven counts of indecent assault, Robert MacLennan, a 70-year-old resident of Romford, East London, received his just punishment. In addition to serving a 15-year prison sentence, he will be placed on the sex offender’s register for life.
