JASON SQUIRRELL FROM BUGLE TO FACE JAIL FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF UNDERAGE GIRL IN CORNWALL

In a case that has shocked the community of Bugle and the wider Cornwall area, Jason Squirrell, a 41-year-old man with a history of residence in Penwithick and Mevagissey, has been found guilty of serious sexual offences involving a minor. The incident, which spanned from 2008 to approximately 2011, involved allegations of inappropriate and illegal conduct with a teenage girl who was under the age of consent at the time.

According to court proceedings held at Truro Crown Court last week, Squirrell, whose last known address was on Minorca Lane in Bugle, faced seven charges related to sexual activity with a minor. Despite vehemently denying the allegations, the jury convicted him on all counts after a detailed trial that included the presentation of text messages, personal cards, and other evidence.

The victim, whose identity remains protected, accused Squirrell of engaging in sexual acts with her during the years 2008 through 2011, a period during which she was under the legal age of consent. Squirrell maintained his innocence, claiming that he and the girl were merely close friends and that no sexual activity ever took place. He insisted that their relationship was innocent, describing it as akin to a strong friendship.

In a revealing moment during the trial, Squirrell admitted to visiting the police station in February 2011, where he purportedly 'confessed' to an inappropriate relationship. However, he later claimed during police interviews that he had not engaged in any sexual acts, asserting that their relationship was simply 'too close.' He also stated that he was unaware of what the girl was planning to report, claiming he asked her about it and she refused to disclose any details.

Evidence presented to the court included text messages sent by Squirrell to the girl on February 19, 2011. One message read: 'You know how much I love you and you say you love me. I want to spend the rest of my life with you.' Another message was more distressing, stating: 'I have nearly killed myself twice because of you.'

Additionally, the court examined two cards allegedly given by Squirrell to the teenage girl. One card, titled 'my number one girl,' featured photographs of both individuals and contained a message: 'If we continue to stick together nothing will get in the way of our love.' The second card, which bore the message 'all my love on our special day,' expressed hope for another year together if she would accept his affection.

Further evidence included the use of Squirrell's eBay account, which was used to purchase items such as a nurse outfit and 'baby doll'-style lingerie, raising questions about his intentions and the nature of their relationship. Squirrell, who has seven children with different women, claimed that the text messages and cards were misinterpreted and that they were merely friendly gestures. He argued that he and the girl had their own 'language' and accused her of manipulating the situation by deleting some messages to her advantage.

In his defense, Squirrell also claimed that when the girl alleged he had touched her sexually, he was only tickling her to cheer her up, denying any sexual misconduct. Despite his explanations, the jury took approximately two hours to reach a verdict, finding him guilty on all counts.

Judge Paul Dunkels, QC, addressed Squirrell directly after the verdict, stating, 'The inevitable sentence you will receive is an immediate custodial sentence of significant length.' The case has left the community in Bugle and the surrounding areas of Cornwall awaiting the consequences of this serious conviction, which underscores the importance of protecting minors from exploitation and abuse.