Barrow Man Jailed for Sexually Assaulting 15-Year-Old Girl
A 76-year-old Barrow man has been jailed after sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl.
Donald Little, of Oxford Street, Barrow, appeared at Preston Crown Court this week after admitting the offence.
The court heard that Little’s behaviour towards the teenage girl made her feel uncomfortable before the assault took place.
He was given a seven-month custodial sentence. He may be released on licence after serving half of the sentence.
A two-year restraining order now prevents him from contacting the victim directly or indirectly.
Court Heard Victim Was Left Frightened
The court was told the incident had a serious impact on the victim.
In a statement read to the court, the girl described being left scared after what happened. She also said the incident continued to affect her daily life.
The victim cannot be named for legal reasons.
Victims of sexual offences are given lifelong anonymity. This means their name, image, school, address, family details or any information that could identify them must not be published.
Judge Criticised Little’s Attitude
His Honour Judge Darren Preston said Little received minimal credit for his guilty plea because it came very late in the case.
The judge also criticised Little’s attitude towards the offence and said he had not taken responsibility for his actions.
He told Little that he had been given warnings before but had ignored them.
Sexual Harm Prevention Order Imposed
Little was also made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
The order will last for five years.
It prevents him from having contact with any female child under the age of 16.
It also prevents him from living in the same accommodation as a female child under 16, or entering a property where a female child under 16 is present, unless the child’s parent or guardian has given consent and has first been told about the offence.
Mitigation Heard
In mitigation, the court was told there had been no suggestion of further issues since the offence.
However, Judge Preston said Little’s attitude showed he was not a candidate for rehabilitation.
Little will serve time in custody before being released on licence, subject to conditions.
Support Available
Anyone affected by sexual assault can contact police by calling 101 or report online through their local police force.
In an emergency, people should always call 999.
Support is also available through specialist sexual violence services, including Rape Crisis, the NSPCC and local victim support organisations.
