SEX OFFENDER REPEATEDLY FAILED TO TELL POLICE WHERE HE WAS LIVING
A sex offender convicted of failing to notify the police of his addresses was detained after repeatedly neglecting to report his whereabouts despite clear warnings.Joshua Thompson, who uses drugs, did not make the effort to go to the police station to update his registered addresses.
It was described in Hull Crown Court as a "persistent breach" of his obligations, and he was warned that further violations could lead to another detention.
The 31-year-old, residing on Worthing Street near Clough Road in Hull and currently held on remand, admitted to three counts of failing to register his residences with law enforcement.
These incidents occurred on August 21 and 27, and on December 2.
Prosecutor Michael Masson explained that Thompson repeatedly failed to inform police about the various addresses where he was residing over a period of approximately three and a half months.
He emphasised, "This is a persistent breach," but added, "There is no evidence that anyone was put in danger." Thompson, who has previous convictions and was serving the penalty of a suspended sentence, was also in breach of that sentence.
Defence lawyer Jazmine Lee stated that Thompson’s bail address had been provided and his details updated on record each time, but he neglected to take the necessary step of personally registering each change with police.
Ms.
Lee pointed out, "He simply didn't take that extra step," and noted that the court was aware of this.
By the time of his court appearance, Thompson had served over three months in custody.
Ms.
Lee also mentioned that Thompson had struggled with drug addiction in the past but had made significant progress.
"He is determined to move past this," she said.
"He is at a crossroads." Judge John Thackray KC addressed Thompson directly, stating, "You have a serious criminal record with offences that endangered the public.
If you fail to adhere to your registration duties in the future, each breach will be viewed increasingly seriously." Ultimately, Thompson received an 11-month sentence suspended for that period, along with a 20-day rehabilitation program.
