ASHBURTON MAN JASON PAGAN SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON EIGHT-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN DEVON

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Ashburton and the surrounding areas, Jason Pagan, a 48-year-old man from Higher Roborough, was convicted of sexually assaulting an eight-year-old girl. The incident, which took place in Devon, has left a lasting impact on the young victim, who reportedly 'lost her innocence' as a result of the assault.

According to court proceedings, Pagan initially claimed that his actions were merely playful, attempting to justify his behavior by stating he was just tickling the child. However, the Exeter Crown Court heard that his conduct escalated beyond innocent play when he touched the girl over her clothing and subsequently massaged her naked buttocks. The assault was serious enough to warrant a jury trial, which concluded in October with a conviction.

Despite his conviction, Pagan maintained his innocence during the sentencing hearing held on Tuesday, January 11. He expressed remorse only for the impact his actions had on the young girl, rather than admitting guilt. The judge, Peter Johnson, was unequivocal in his assessment of the case, emphasizing the severity of the offense and the ongoing harm inflicted upon the child.

Judge Johnson stated, “I’ve considered with care whether it is appropriate to suspend the sentence and in my view it is not. Whilst it may be said you are capable of being rehabilitated, this offence is so serious that only immediate custody is appropriate. There is ongoing harm to the young child. She has lost her innocence, and that’s why this must be an immediate custodial sentence.”

The prosecution, led by Ms. Kelly Scrivener, highlighted Pagan’s criminal history, revealing that he has a record of sexual offenses. She pointed out that Pagan had previously been convicted in 1993 of three counts of indecent assault on a female under 16. For those offenses, he served 42 months in a Young Offenders Institution. Since then, Pagan’s criminal record has included charges related to criminal damage, dishonesty, and threatening behavior involving an offensive weapon.

Following his latest conviction, Pagan was sentenced to 21 months in prison. The court also imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, restricting his access to children, and ordered him to register as a sex offender. These measures are intended to prevent any further harm and to monitor his activities moving forward. The case has once again raised concerns about the safety of children in the community of Ashburton and the importance of vigilant law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals from repeat offenders.