ANDREW STIDSTON SHOCKS PLYMOUTH WITH INDECENT ACT IN FRONT OF 12-YEAR-OLD GIRL
In a disturbing incident that has shocked the community of Plymouth, a local man has been convicted and sentenced for committing an indecent act in front of a young girl.The incident took place on December 20, when Andrew Stidston, aged 34, deliberately exposed his genitals in a manner intended to cause alarm or distress to a 12-year-old girl who was present at the scene.
Following his arrest two days after the incident, Stidston appeared before the city magistrates to face the charges.
The court heard that his actions were particularly serious given the vulnerable age of the victim and the nature of the offence.
The magistrates emphasized that such behaviour could not be tolerated, especially when committed in front of a minor.
Stidston, who resides on Greenbank Avenue in the St Judes area of Plymouth, admitted to the offence.
The magistrates sentenced him to 16 weeks in prison, citing the gravity of the offence and his apparent unwillingness or inability to comply with non-custodial sentences.
The court also ordered that he must register as a sex offender for a period of five years, a measure designed to monitor his activities and prevent further harm.
Additionally, a restraining order was issued, prohibiting Stidston from making any contact with the young girl for a duration of one year.
He was also required to pay a victim surcharge of £128.
The case highlights a troubling pattern of behaviour for Stidston, who has a lengthy criminal record spanning over a decade, including previous convictions and multiple prison sentences.
His criminal history includes a six-week sentence handed down in August of the previous year for damaging a window and a wall phone at Charles Cross police station.
Just three months prior, he was sentenced to 16 weeks for a series of nuisance calls, indicating a pattern of disruptive and concerning conduct over recent years.
The community and authorities continue to grapple with the implications of his actions and the ongoing risk he may pose.
