PAUL MATTOX FROM MELTON AND OLD DALBY JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING SCHOOLGIRL

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Melton and Old Dalby, a 25-year-old man named Paul Mattox has been sentenced to prison following his conviction for engaging in sexual activity with a minor. The incident, which took place on September 15 of the previous year, involved a 14-year-old girl who was subjected to an inappropriate and non-consensual encounter. The court heard that the girl, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, was so distressed that she broke down at her school just four days after the assault.

According to the prosecution, led by Philip Gibbs, the young girl was visibly upset, hyperventilating, and eventually disclosed that she had been forced into sexual acts against her will. This revelation prompted immediate concern and action from school authorities and law enforcement agencies. The court was informed that Paul Mattox, a resident of Queensway, Old Dalby, expressed remorse towards the girl after the incident, allegedly telling her that it would not happen again. Despite this, the court emphasized that the act was a clear violation of her rights and safety.

During the proceedings, it was revealed that Mattox had no prior criminal record and was considered to be of previously good character. His defense attorney, Robin Howat, highlighted that Mattox suffers from learning difficulties, epilepsy, and possibly autism. Mr. Howat explained that Mattox was educated at a special school and has limited intellectual abilities, with some deficits being deeply ingrained. While acknowledging that these conditions do not absolve him of responsibility, the defense argued that they should be taken into account when considering his culpability.

Judge Simon Hammond, presiding over the case at Leicester Crown Court, acknowledged the defendant’s guilty plea, which spared the victim from having to testify in court. However, he was clear in his condemnation of Mattox’s actions, stating, “She wasn’t to blame. He was the adult and she was the child.” The judge emphasized that the offense was sexually motivated, with Mattox clearly finding the girl sexually attractive and exploiting her vulnerability.

In his sentencing remarks, Judge Hammond sentenced Paul Mattox to four years in prison and ordered him to register as a sex offender for life. The judge also issued a stern warning that any repetition of such behavior could result in an indeterminate prison sentence, underscoring the court’s commitment to protecting young girls from predators. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding minors and holding offenders accountable for their actions.