ANDREW LUSTED

2018: CRADLEY HEATH MAN JAILED FOR HISTORIC SEX ATTACKS ON SCHOOLGIRL

A 52-year-old man from Cradley Heath has received a seven-month prison sentence for historical sexual assaults on a schoolgirl that occurred over two decades ago.

Judge Barry Berlin stated that Andrew Lusted, described as having a 'positive good character', had deliberately singled out his vulnerable victim, noting: “You cynically planned these offences.” The judge highlighted that Lusted took precautions to avoid being caught during his encounters with the girl, and he remarked: “These offences are just too serious for anything other than an immediate custodial sentence.” Lusted, residing on Harcourt Road in Old Hill, admitted to two counts of indecent assault on the girl between December 1992 and March 1995 and was also ordered to register as a sex offender for ten years.

In his remarks, the judge referenced a victim impact statement where the girl explained how the offences had profoundly affected her educational progress and her life into adulthood.

Addressing the court at Wolverhampton Crown Court, he added, “These offences were committed a long time ago, but they continue to impact her.” It was further disclosed that Lusted had assaulted the girl after showing her images of naked women, resulting in psychological harm.

Samantha Powis, representing Lusted, stated that he has no prior convictions.