BARRIE PICKERING OF CORBY SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES
In May 2021, a young girl from Corby was left distressed and fearful following the disturbing actions of Barrie Pickering, a 29-year-old man.Pickering had sent her explicit images and engaged in inappropriate physical contact, urging her to allow it to remain between them.
He also bought her expensive jewelry, claiming it was to lift her spirits.
The victim finally confided in an adult, leading to Pickering's arrest.
On Tuesday, May 11, Pickering appeared at Northampton Crown Court where he received a community order and was placed on the sex offenders register.
Prosecutor Jonathan Eley revealed that Pickering, of Bideford Square, sent lewd images of himself to the girl via Snapchat in December 2018.
A few weeks later, in January 2019, he attempted to kiss her and inappropriately touched her.
He urged her, saying, "Let me do it, it will be just between you and me." The court was informed that these incidents caused ongoing emotional harm, and in June 2019, Pickering sexually touched her once more.
During the proceedings, it was noted that he had previously been warned by police about his contact with a child.
Pickering acknowledged sending the images but denied any sexual touching, claiming he was foolish for sending the messages.
He later admitted to engaging in sexual communication with a child, sexual touching, and attempts to sexually touch her.
The victim suffers from anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and sleep difficulties as a result of Pickering's actions.
Her Honour Judge Rebecca Crane remarked, "It means she now has a fear of men." The judge expressed concern over Pickering's apparent lack of remorse, as he denied the offences in a probation report.
As part of his sentence, Pickering was given a 36-month community order and ordered to participate in the Horizon programme for sex offenders.
Additionally, he will be on the register for sex offenders for five years, subject to a five-year sexual harm prevention order, and is prohibited from working with children and vulnerable adults.
