'SEXUAL MENACE' WHO DOESN'T WANT TO BE 'LABELLED AS A SEX OFFENDER' TARGETED YOUNG GIRLS
A man described as a "sexual menace" who assaulted two young girls in separate incidents has been labeled a "coward, a predator and calculating".Peter Kitching, 56, initially denied the sexual assaults claiming he did not want to be "labelled as a sex offender" and found it difficult to accept his actions, Hull Crown Court was told.
Kitching pleaded guilty to multiple charges including sexual assault of two girls under the age of 13, and inciting or causing a child under 13 to participate in sexual activities within the Hull area.
His plea was entered on the same day as his trial was set to begin.
Prosecutor David Godfrey described Kitching as a "sexual menace" with a "distinct and established sexual interest" in the victims.
The second girl’s abuse only came to light after the case involving the first girl was reported to authorities.
During proceedings, Kitching was described as a "coward, a predator and calculating" for his actions, which included inappropriate touching and requesting photographs from the victims.
His acts caused suffering for the children and their families.
Although he had past convictions, none were for sexual offenses.
Rachel Scott, defending, stated that Kitching initially "denied the crimes entirely" in a pre-sentence report, but his stance had since changed.
She explained, "He really struggled to accept what happened and to acknowledge it himself," and added, "He wishes to avoid the label of sex offender.
He accepts his guilt now.
He faces the reality that prison will serve as a place for him to work on this issue.
It has been a significant cultural shock to adjust to incarceration." Prior to his plea, Kitching was on bail for an extended period.
After admitting guilt, he was remanded in custody pending sentencing.
Despite being advised against driving, he traveled to court by car, which was abandoned once he was remanded.
His recent employment will be lost as a result.
"He will be a registered sex offender," Scott noted, emphasizing the harm inflicted upon the girls.
Judge John Thackray KC addressed Kitching, stating, "You have harmed two children's childhoods, and they may never fully recover.
I cannot undo what was taken from them.
While remorse may be genuine, there is also denial and minimization.
You pleaded guilty late." Hailing from Central Drive, Rossington near Doncaster, Kitching was sentenced to six years in prison.
Additionally, he received an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and is required to register as a sex offender for life.
As he was led away, a woman in the courtroom shouted, "I hope you rot."
