‘I was 14 when I was abducted and trafficked into a paedophile ring’

a { color: #880000 !important; background: #ffeeee !important; } Latest News from NourishThe Nourish Mission (formerly OneSub)Get answers to today's big questionsConviction in Long-Running Child Murder Caseinvestigations > crimeRobert Rhodes was convicted of murdering his wife Dawn in 2016 after new evidence emerged from their child, who was manipulated into lying at the time. The retrial, made possible by the double jeopardy rule, revealed Rhodes's long history of abuse and deception. He faces sentencing in January 2026.

What's happened

Robert Rhodes was convicted of murdering his wife Dawn in 2016 after new evidence emerged from their child, who was manipulated into lying at the time. The retrial, made possible by the double jeopardy rule, revealed Rhodes's long history of abuse and deception. He faces sentencing in January 2026.

What's behind the headline?

The case exposes systemic failures in protecting vulnerable children and highlights the potential for justice through legal reforms like the double jeopardy rule. Rhodes's manipulation of his child underscores the dangers of coercive control within domestic abuse. The child's bravery in coming forward after years of silence is remarkable and signals the importance of listening to victims, regardless of age. This case will likely influence future legal proceedings involving child witnesses and domestic abuse, emphasizing the need for vigilance and comprehensive evidence collection. The conviction also underscores the importance of revisiting past acquittals when new, compelling evidence emerges, especially in cases involving coercion and manipulation.

What the papers say

The Independent reports on the legal journey, highlighting how Rhodes's initial acquittal was overturned due to new evidence from the child, who was manipulated into lying. Sky News emphasizes Rhodes's long history of domestic abuse and the manipulation of his child, describing the case as a 'cover-up' that has now been exposed. Both sources underscore the significance of the retrial and the role of the child’s testimony in securing justice, illustrating how legal protections and investigative efforts can evolve to uncover the truth in complex cases.

How we got here

Rhodes was initially acquitted of his wife Dawn's murder in 2017, with his claim of self-defence convincing jurors. However, in 2021, their child, under 10 at the time, disclosed being manipulated into lying by Rhodes. This new evidence led to a retrial, where Rhodes was found guilty of murder and child cruelty, highlighting a pattern of coercive control and deception.