GEORGE PRIME FROM SWADLINCOTE AND MARKET BOSWORTH JAILED FOR ABDUCTION OF SIX-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the communities of Market Bosworth and Swadlincote, a 61-year-old man named George Prime has been sentenced to prison following his involvement in the abduction of a young girl. The incident occurred on June 26 of the previous year, when Prime, who resides in Coton Park, Linton, Swadlincote, drove away a six-year-old girl in his van while she was playing outside her home in Market Bosworth.

According to reports presented at Leicester Crown Court, Prime had just delivered a household goods catalogue to the child's residence when the incident took place. The child's friend noticed Prime's actions and alerted her parents immediately. The parents attempted to contact Prime using the telephone number listed on the catalogue, but their calls went unanswered. Fortunately, within approximately five minutes, the girl was returned unharmed, but the incident left a lasting impact on the community.

Prosecutor James Varley revealed that police investigations uncovered more troubling evidence on Prime's computer. It was found that he had downloaded child pornography, including 205 images classified as level one and two images at level two. Additionally, Prime possessed a prohibited image of a child, all of which was discovered during a search of his electronic devices.

Prime, who is single, admitted to abducting the girl but denied any sexual intent. During his testimony, he claimed that he was on friendly terms with the child's family and that the girl had asked him for a lift in his van. He stated that he gave her a quick ride without considering the implications and acknowledged that he should have sought permission from her parents beforehand. Prime also claimed that during the journey, the girl suggested having a sleepover at his home, which he did not pursue further.

Despite his explanations, Judge Michael Pert QC was not convinced by Prime's account. The judge stated, “I’m perfectly satisfied his motivation, in this case, was sexual. He’s admitted sexual interest in this sort of age group.” The court heard that Prime had spent nearly a year in custody on remand, which would be counted towards his sentence.

In addition to the abduction charge, Prime was convicted of four counts of downloading indecent photographs of children, involving a total of 207 images, and possessing a prohibited image of a child. He was sentenced to 27 months in prison, during which he shouted from the dock, “an act of kindness gets punished.”

Furthermore, Prime was subjected to a sexual offences prevention order, which prohibits him from working with children. He was also placed under a restraining order that forbids any contact with the victim or her family, aiming to prevent further harm or intimidation. The court's decision underscores the severity of Prime’s actions and the ongoing concern for child safety in the region.