ASHBY-DE-LA-ZOUCH MAN MICHAEL PAGETT SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF VULNERABLE YOUNG MAN

In August 2019, a disturbing case of sexual assault involving a man from Ashby-de-la-Zouch has come to light, highlighting the serious abuse of a young man with special needs. The perpetrator, Michael Pagett, a 54-year-old self-employed businessman residing on Ingle Drive in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, was found guilty of multiple counts of sexual misconduct against a vulnerable individual.

Over several years, Pagett groomed and engaged in sexual activities with the victim, who was significantly impaired mentally and lacked the capacity to refuse or understand the nature of his actions. The court was informed that the victim had a very low IQ and perceived the world in a childlike manner, making him particularly susceptible to manipulation and exploitation.

During the proceedings at Leicester Crown Court, it was revealed that Pagett admitted to eight counts of engaging in sexual activity with a person suffering from a mental disorder that impaired his ability to make informed choices. Additionally, he pleaded guilty to two counts of causing or inciting a person with such a mental disorder to participate in sexual acts.

Prosecutor Grace Hale described the victim as extremely vulnerable, noting that he was unaware of the sexual acts being filmed by Pagett. The victim’s mother eventually became aware of the situation after her son confided in her, prompting her to raise the alarm. Following her report, authorities arrested Pagett, seized the indecent footage, and ordered its destruction to prevent further harm.

The impact on the victim and his family was profound. His mother described her son as a loving, loyal, and happy individual before the abuse. However, after the incidents, he now appears “completely different,” constantly on edge, wary, and tearful. She expressed her heartbreak, saying, “His whole concept of trust is shattered. There’s no more jokes and he just wants to spend time on his own; all of our lives have changed but most of all my son’s.”

She further explained that her son has experienced fits and panic attacks due to the stress and worry caused by the abuse. He is now confused, anxious, and upset, often asking if he will go to prison, which she reassures him he has done nothing wrong. Her words conveyed the deep emotional toll the case has taken on the family, especially on her son, who is haunted by fear and uncertainty.

Judge Robert Brown addressed the court during sentencing, emphasizing that Pagett was considered a person of previously good character. However, he noted that Pagett’s relationship with the victim had devolved into sexual abuse, with the victim being akin to someone under the age of 13 in terms of mental capacity. As a result, Pagett was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Furthermore, he was placed under a sexual harm prevention order and will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect others from similar harm.