Paedophile sexually abused six young girls.

Bermondsey Man Found Guilty of Sexually Abusing Six Young Girls

A Bermondsey man has been found guilty of multiple offenses, including rape and indecent assault, for subjecting six young girls to horrific sexual abuse over nearly two decades.

Robert Pearce, 54, was convicted of 23 offenses at Croydon Crown Court on Tuesday, April 12. The abuse spanned from 1999 to 2017, with victims ranging in age from seven to sixteen.

Pearce abused the victims while in a position of authority as a leader in a live action roleplay group, using his role to groom and abuse young girls who attended the events.

PC Helen French, the lead investigator, commended the victims for their courage in coming forward. "Pearce took complete advantage of these young girls and his actions have undoubtedly had a significant impact on all of their lives," she said. "I want to commend their courage and bravery in speaking to police and providing the evidence which has proved vital to his conviction."

French emphasized the police's commitment to investigating sexual abuse allegations, regardless of how much time has passed. "I hope this prosecution shows that we take all allegations of sexual abuse extremely seriously, no matter how much time has passed. I would encourage anyone who has been a victim of such abuse to come forward and speak to us - we have specialist officers who will listen and support you," she said.

The investigation began in 2020 when one of the offenses was reported to the police. This initial report led to the discovery of other victims, further solidifying the case against Pearce.

Pearce is scheduled to be sentenced on June 20.