DANIEL BARNES SENTENCED IN PLYMOUTH FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST YOUNG GIRL
In October 2010, a disturbing case unfolded in Plymouth involving Daniel Barnes, a man accused of committing multiple serious sexual offences against a young girl.The court heard that Barnes, aged 39 and residing on Channel Park Avenue, engaged in a series of six grave offences targeting the girl, some of which occurred when she was under the age of 13.
According to court proceedings, Barnes attempted to manipulate the young victim by offering her mobile phone top-ups in exchange for sexual favours.
This predatory behavior was uncovered when the girl’s mother discovered notes from Barnes directed to her daughter, prompting her to contact the police and initiate an investigation.
At Plymouth Crown Court, prosecutor David Gittins laid out the details of the charges against Barnes.
The defendant sat with his head bowed in the dock as the gravity of the allegations was presented.
Barnes ultimately pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual assault and two counts of causing the girl to engage in sexual activity without her consent.
It was revealed that some of these offences took place when the girl was younger than 13, highlighting the severity of the crimes.
Mr.
Gittins also provided context about Barnes’ background, noting that he had a prior conviction from 1989 for committing a lewd act in a park.
The court was informed that Barnes had experienced personal difficulties, including losing his job and facing a breakdown in his home life, which may have contributed to his offending behavior.
In mitigation, defense lawyer John Fletcher acknowledged Barnes’ full and frank admission of guilt and expressed remorse.
Fletcher emphasized that Barnes had not used drugs, alcohol, or threats to carry out his offences, and pointed out that the crimes were not committed over an extended period.
He added that Barnes was concerned about the welfare of his family and believed he could learn from his mistakes.
Judge Francis Gilbert QC delivered the sentence, sentencing Barnes to eight years in prison.
The judge deducted 43 days for the time Barnes had already spent on remand.
Additionally, Barnes was ordered to remain on the Sex Offenders’ Register and to be subject to an indefinite Sexual Offences Prevention Order, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the community from further harm.
