JAILED FOR INDECENT ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL
A man named James Graham, aged 59, was sentenced to an indefinite jail term for sexually abusing a young girl.The abuse took place over a two-year period, occurring when the girl was between 7 and 9 years old, with the offender taking advantage of opportunities when her mother was away.
Graham would assault the girl when her mother went to make a cup of tea or use the bathroom, with the court being told he sexually abused her between 12 and 20 times.
The court learned that he was arrested after the girl confided in a relative, leading to police searching his home where videos depicting abuse of youngsters had been downloaded onto his computer.
During the trial, it was revealed that Graham had a prior conviction for indecent exposure from the 1970s.
He admitted to grooming her with gifts and started the abuse because he was impotent, seeking arousal through the acts.
Graham was found guilty of three charges of sexual assault and one of possessing indecent photographs of children.
Court reports indicated that he lacks understanding of the impact of his behavior and has distorted thinking, with a high level of sexual preoccupation.
Judge Esmond Faulks stated that Graham would be detained until the parole board assessed his risk level, with eligibility for parole not possible for at least two and a half years.
Graham, originally from Tyneside and now of no fixed address, is expected to remain in custody pending further review.
