PAUL WATSON FROM KIRKBY-IN-ASHFIELD JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING 15-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN NOTTINGHAM

In a case that has shocked the local community of Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Paul Watson, a 43-year-old man with a troubling history, has been sentenced to four years in prison for engaging in a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl. Watson, who previously faced a conviction for similar misconduct, was disqualified from working with children following his 2005 conviction for touching another underage girl. Despite this, he continued to pursue young girls, leading to his latest criminal activities.

According to court reports, Watson began to flirt with his latest victim, a teenage girl, and their interactions escalated over time. The girl reported that Watson contacted her via Facebook, where he made inappropriate comments, including expressing hope for a “happy ending.” The Nottingham Crown Court heard that their relationship progressed to physical intimacy, with Watson and the girl sharing kisses and planning to meet once she turned 16. The court was informed that Watson had sexual intercourse with her at her home and also in his Mitsubishi 4x4 vehicle.

Prosecutor Sue Matthews described the victim’s account, stating, “The complainant said the defendant became obsessive and did not want her seeing other people.” The disturbing details emerged when the girl confided in a friend, who then informed her mother. It was revealed that Watson had engaged in sexual activity with her on three separate occasions, and on two of those occasions, she was compelled to perform an indecent act. The girl expressed feelings of upset, anger, and shame, and revealed her fears about pregnancy, although she was not pregnant at the time.

During the court proceedings, Watson’s defense attorney, Mark Watson, argued that all acts were consensual, emphasizing that his client’s previous conviction should be considered an aggravating factor. Judge Michael Stokes QC addressed Watson directly, stating that upon release, he would be subject to an extended license for three years and required to register as a sex offender for life. The judge condemned Watson’s conduct, describing it as sustained abuse involving grooming and manipulation, with the victim becoming infatuated with him. The judge expressed concern over Watson’s escalating offending behavior, indicating that he posed a significant risk of causing serious harm to young females and that his release could not be safely predicted at this time.