Former Bradford City footballer jailed for sexual offences against children
Tyrell Robinson and his friend Korie Berman carried out the crimes across the Bradford District.
Last updated 27th Jan 2021
Two men, including a former Bradford City footballer, have been jailed for sexual offences against children.
23-year-old Tyrell Robinson, who played for the Bantams between 2017 and 2020, was jailed at Bradford Crown Court yesterday, along with his friend Korie Berman.
West Yorkshire Police released the following statement following the sentencing:
"Two men, including a former Bradford City footballer have been jailed for sexual activity with a child."
"Tyrell Robinson 23, of Barrett Way, South Ockendon, Essex, and Korie Berman, 22, of Barnmead Meadow, Thurrock, were charged in February 2020 for various offences including sexual activity with a child and making and distributing indecent images of children.
"In August 2018, police were contacted by two of the victims to report the offences and a further girl also came forward.
"All of the three victims were female, aged 14 and the offences happened in the Bradford District.
"Both men were arrested in relation to the offences and then subsequently charged by police.
"At the first hearing in June 2020, Berman pleaded not guilty to five offences, and Robinson pleaded guilty to engaging with sexual activity with a girl under 16, distributing an indecent photo of a child and making an indecent photograph of a child.
"Then, shortly before the trial hearings were due to start, Berman changed his original not guilty plea and pleaded guilty to five counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl under 16.
"Today (26 January) both men appeared at Bradford Crown Court and were sentenced six years (Berman) and three and a half years (Robinson)."
Detective Chief Inspector Alan Weekes, of Bradford District Police, said: “We welcome the prison sentences that have been handed down to both Berman and Robinson today. Given their guilty pleas, they have spared their victims from going through the court process.”
“We would like to reassure anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse that you will be listened to and supported by the police. We have specially trained officers in our safeguarding units who are committed to bringing perpetrators to justice.
Anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse or crime is encouraged to contact the police and report any offences.”
An NSPCC spokesperson said: “Robinson and Berman today faced justice for their reprehensible actions; they groomed and sexually exploited their young victims in the full knowledge that they were only 14.
“Child sexual abuse can have a devastating and long-lasting impact on people’s lives.
“We would urge anyone who has experienced abuse, no matter who the perpetrator is or how long ago the abuse took place, to speak out and seek support.”
Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111. Adults with concerns about the welfare of a child can phone the NSPCC helpline on 0808 8005000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk.