JAMES TIMMONS SENTENCED IN EDGBASTON FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING 15-YEAR-OLD GIRL

A man identified as James Timmons has been formally sentenced following his attempt to exploit a 15-year-old girl through a series of inappropriate messages and communications. The incident took place in Edgbaston, where Timmons, aged 47 and residing on Rotton Park Road, engaged in manipulative social interactions with the young girl. According to reports, Timmons approached her while she was on a bus, attempting to persuade her to hand over her mobile phone. Despite the girl clearly stating her age, he persisted in his efforts to establish contact.

After obtaining her phone, Timmons dialed his own number from her device, effectively saving his contact details in her phone. This act was part of his broader attempt to maintain communication with her. Later that evening, Timmons sent her a message suggesting they meet up, explicitly discussing having 'no strings attached fun.' This message was particularly alarming given the girl’s age, which she had previously disclosed. Despite her clear statement that she was only 15, Timmons continued to pursue contact with her.

It was only after the girl contacted West Midlands Police that authorities intervened. Officers from the Public Protection Unit, a specialized division tasked with handling such cases, became involved. During the investigation, it was revealed that Timmons had deleted the message in which he proposed meeting up, indicating an awareness of the inappropriate nature of his actions.

Further court proceedings at Birmingham Crown Court uncovered that Timmons had a prior conviction for inciting a girl aged 13 to 15 to engage in sexual activity. On May 13, he was sentenced to a term of 12 months in prison. In addition to his incarceration, Timmons was subjected to a sexual harm prevention order, restricting his activities and contact with minors. He was also registered as a sex offender for a period of ten years, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct.

DC Nicky Simms from the Public Protection Unit commended the bravery of the young girl who reported the incident. She emphasized that even in the absence of physical contact, a crime had been committed, highlighting the importance of safeguarding young people from exploitation. DC Simms stated, 'This case does show that even though there was no physical contact a crime was still committed and we will always do all we can to take action and safeguard our youngsters.'