September 2008 Man is spared jail for assault A FORMER bus driver has been told his indecent assault on a young girl would not result in a jail sentence because it occurred 28 years ago. Brian Milton, from Kirton Place, Efford, appeared before Judge Francis Gilbert QC at Plymouth Crown Court on the charge of indecently assaulting the girl. Prosecutor Ali Rafati explained how Milton, now 59, then lived at his parents’ house – where he still lives. The court heard how he pulled off the dungarees of a young girl, before touching her private parts. He then asked the girl “was that nice?” Mr Rafati said the girl replied “yes” but told police it was only to appease him. Milton also offered the girl money but she refused. In 1991 he saw the girl again and apologised for his actions. Mr Rafati said the matter only came to light this year as a result of another incident. Milton admitted the charge and his defence barrister, Jason Beale, revealed he had since lost his job as a bus driver. Judge Gilbert said the incident was “at least 28 years ago” and “a one-off”. He said he really could not see a reason for Milton to undergo a supervisory order or go on a sexual rehabilitation course. He would, however, be put on the Sex Offenders’ Register for the next five years. Judge Gilbert said he gave credit for his guilty plea and “having the courage to apologise to her” in 1991. He said: “Any indecent assault is serious, but this was one incident on one occasion. You have already lost your job of the last 24 years and you’re now unemployed.” He then sentenced Milton to a two-year conditional discharge.