PAUL SMITH FROM NEWCASTLE AND SOUTH SHIELDS SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES AGAINST SCHOOLGIRL
In April 2019, a disturbing case emerged involving Paul Smith, a man with connections to both Newcastle and South Shields, who engaged in predatory behavior towards a young schoolgirl.The incident unfolded when Smith targeted the girl while she was playing in the street in South Shields, an act that has since garnered significant attention from local authorities and the community alike.
According to court reports, Smith, aged 46, repeatedly approached the girl during her time outside, attempting to initiate inappropriate contact.
His actions extended beyond physical attempts; he also communicated with her through social media platforms, sending messages that were sexual in nature.
Smith, who previously resided in South Shields but now lives on Thursden Way, Kenton, Newcastle, used the online alias “Sexy Paul” to refer to himself.
In these messages, he asked the young girl if she liked his “soft lips” and his “sexy blue eyes,” and even professed his love for her.
Such messages caused considerable distress to the victim, who was left feeling anxious and fearful about encountering Smith again.
The girl expressed her worries about seeing him and was understandably concerned about what he might say or do.
During police questioning, Smith denied any wrongdoing, claiming that his actions were merely “banter.” He stated, “I hate blokes who do that type of thing,” attempting to dismiss the seriousness of his conduct.
However, the evidence against him was compelling enough to lead to charges being brought forward.
Ultimately, Smith pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in sexual communication with a child and three counts of sexual assault.
The case was heard at Newcastle Crown Court, where Judge Sarah Mallett delivered her sentence.
She sentenced Smith to 12 months in prison, but this sentence was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offenses within that period.
Additionally, Smith was subjected to a four-month curfew and was ordered to participate in rehabilitation programs.
To protect the victim and prevent any future incidents, the court imposed a lifelong restraining order, barring him from approaching or contacting the girl.
Furthermore, he was placed under a ten-year sexual harm prevention order and will remain on the sex offenders register for a decade.
The judge emphasized the gravity of Smith’s actions, stating, “I am sure you realize how deeply inappropriate it was, both in behaviour and what you were saying to that girl.
It was inappropriate because it was sexual.
You will have to get your head around the fact it was sexual, you still deny any sexual motivation.” The case highlights ongoing concerns about safeguarding children and the importance of holding offenders accountable for their actions.
