St Austell man jailed for grooming and sexually abusing teenage girl
A man has been jailed for six years for grooming and sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl.
Jonathan Simpson, 32, from the St Austell area, appeared at Truro Crown Court for sentencing on 2 October after being found guilty by a jury of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl 13 to 15.
The court heard how the offence took place in early 2023 when the victim was 14 and vulnerable.
She described to officers how Simpson asked her if she wanted to go for a drink and she agreed.
They met at a bus stop in the St Austell area and then drank and stayed for several days at Simpson’s caravan.
During this time Simpson proceeded to sexually assault the victim despite being 28 and knowing she was 14.
DNA analysis found Simpson’s semen on the victim’s clothes.
Officer in the case, Detective Constable David Squire said: “Jonathan Simpson took advantage of the victim’s vulnerability and proceeded to groom and exploit her for his own sexual gratification.
“Simpson was fully aware of the victim’s age yet carried on regardless.
“I would like to thank the victim for having the courage to disclose what happened to her, and for remaining engaged in the legal process, resulting in Simpson being convicted for the sexual offence.”
Support available
If you have been affected by this article there is support available.
You can visit victimcare-dc.org to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system.
You can also call Victim Support on 0808 1689 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.
Advice and support can also be found at:
National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999
Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) 0300 3034626
For more information please visit: www.dc.police.uk/Rape-SexualAssault
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