A sex offender has been sentenced to 35 months in jail after sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl at a graveyard in Stourbridge. Robert Osbourne, 48, pleaded guilty to the charges of sexual assault and breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO). The sentencing took place at Wolverhampton Court on November 10.

Osbourne, who is a registered sex offender, approached a group of children and requested to join them on a bench, engaging them in conversation. He then convinced the girl to accompany him away from her friends by asking her to show him the location of a water tap in the graveyard. It was during this time that he sexually touched her. The incident occurred on October 22, 2021.

The courageous girl reported the assault a few days later. Following her report, Osbourne was spotted in the Stourbridge area. Authorities were able to obtain CCTV footage, and he was subsequently identified by his sex offender manager.

In addition to the jail term, Osbourne was also issued a new SHPO with strict conditions.

DC Adrian Jackson, from the Sandwell and Dudley Child Abuse Investigation Team, commended the bravery of the girl in reporting the assault. He emphasized that her courage serves as an inspiration for others who may have experienced sexual abuse, assuring them that they will be listened to, believed, and supported throughout the entire process, from initial contact to court.

DC Jackson also expressed gratitude to the girl’s family for their support during the case.