JARROW MAN WHO HAD SEX WITH UNDERAGE GIRL IS SPARED JAIL TERM.
2016 Gary Miller engaged in sexual activity twice with a 14-year-old girl who disclosed her age to him within days of their initial encounter last spring.During the hearing at Newcastle Crown Court, it was revealed that the teenager threatened to report the incident after Miller instructed her to stop texting him following a disagreement shortly after their sexual interactions.
The police became involved following a heated confrontation between the two parties.
Prosecutor Gavin Doig stated in court: "He asked her to cease messaging him.
She responded by saying she would contact the police.
It was clear there were numerous messages exchanged—dozens—in an angry manner, between them.
This dispute ultimately led to police being called and the defendant being detained." Mr Doig also noted: "He was exactly 21, she was 14 years and seven months old." Miller, aged 21 and residing on Priory Road in Jarrow, pleaded guilty to two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a minor.
Sentencing was carried out by Judge Penny Moreland, who imposed a three-year community order that includes participation in group work and other programs.
The judge commented that because of Miller’s circumstances—owning a home and having employment—prison was unnecessary.
He is required to register as a sex offender for five years.
Judge Moreland explained: "Following an argument, you told her you wanted to end the relationship.
She was distressed, and that distress persisted for several days.
During this period, she reported the events to the police." She added that if Miller had not been deemed suitable for a community sentence, he would have faced a two-year prison term.
The judge warned: "The sentence I consider appropriate for your conduct is two years’ imprisonment.
If you breach any conditions of the community order or commit further offences, you will return to court and serve that sentence."
