ANTHONY BARNETT SHOCKS NEWCASTLE WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT ON TEENAGER

In June 2011, a disturbing case emerged involving Anthony Barnett, a 48-year-old resident of Henry Street, Newcastle, who was found guilty of sexually assaulting a teenage girl. The incident, which took place over multiple occasions, involved Barnett touching the girl’s breasts both under her clothing and over her clothing, causing significant concern and outrage within the community.

During the proceedings at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, Barnett pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault. The court heard that his actions were repeated, indicating a pattern of inappropriate behavior that heightened the seriousness of the case. The victim’s distress and the repeated nature of the assaults underscored the gravity of the offense.

In his defense, Anis Ali, representing Barnett, emphasized that the defendant had no prior criminal record and expressed that Barnett was deeply embarrassed and ashamed of his actions. Despite this, the court was clear about the severity of the offense and the need for appropriate punishment.

As part of his sentence, Barnett was ordered to serve a three-year community order and was required to register as a sex offender for five years. Additionally, he was mandated to pay costs amounting to £1,200. The judge, Michael Dudley, acknowledged the seriousness of the case, stating, "This was serious, it was repeated. It would normally attract an immediate custodial sentence." However, he justified the community-based sentence as a means of better protecting the public, emphasizing that the repeated nature of the assaults warranted a strict but non-custodial approach.

Overall, the case highlights the ongoing concerns about sexual offenses and the importance of community and judicial measures to prevent such incidents and protect vulnerable individuals in Newcastle and beyond.