CRAIG KNIGHT FROM LOOE AND PLYMOUTH JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES AGAINST UNDERAGE GIRLS

In a case that has shocked the communities of Looe and Plymouth, Craig Knight, a 21-year-old man, was sentenced to a prison term after being found guilty of engaging in sexual activities with two underage girls. The incidents occurred within a span of just a few days in August 2012, when Knight was 20 years old, and the court heard how his actions had devastating effects on the victims' lives.

According to the court proceedings, Knight took advantage of a young schoolgirl after her mother was hospitalized and had to be taken to Derriford Hospital. During this period, Knight was entrusted with the responsibility of caring for the girl, which he exploited for his own illicit purposes. The court was informed that Knight persuaded the girl to perform a sexual act on him, an act that left lasting scars on her mental health. The victim described her suffering in a statement, revealing that she has struggled with sleep, crying episodes, and nightmares since the assault. She also disclosed that she has sought help from numerous counselors and therapists to cope with the trauma.

Further details revealed that just a few days later, following a family gathering, Knight visited the home of a second girl. There, he engaged in similar sexual misconduct, persuading her to perform the same act as the first victim. The second girl reported that her relationship with family and friends has been adversely affected, and her academic performance has declined as a result of the emotional distress caused by Knight’s actions.

During the sentencing, Judge Paul Darlow emphasized that Knight was fully aware of the girls’ ages and the illegality of his actions. He sentenced Knight to two years and eight months in prison, underscoring the seriousness of the offenses. The Crown Prosecutor, Lee Brembridge, highlighted that Knight’s behavior was predatory and manipulative, taking advantage of the trust placed in him by the victims and their families.

Defense attorney Deni Matthews argued that Knight’s conduct was “out of character” and attributed his actions to a lack of maturity. He also pointed out that Knight has recognized the harm caused and that his risk of re-offending is low. However, the investigation was led by Detective Constable Darren White of the Devon and Cornwall Police’s Child Exploitation Unit. After the case concluded, Det. White reaffirmed the police’s commitment to protecting vulnerable young people and emphasized that the law clearly states the age of consent is 16 years. He urged anyone who suspects they or others may be victims of exploitation to come forward, assuring them of police support.

Both victims and their families continue to suffer emotional and psychological scars from the incidents, which serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and safeguarding efforts in the community.