JOSHUA BAGLEY FROM LOUTH ADMITS TO SEX OFFENCES INVOLVING 15-YEAR-OLD GIRL AT LINCOLN CROWN COURT

In August 2016, a serious case unfolded involving Joshua Bagley, a 21-year-old man from Louth, who faced charges related to inappropriate and illegal conduct towards a minor. Bagley appeared before Lincoln Crown Court, where he chose to represent himself during the proceedings. The charges against him stemmed from incidents that took place between February 3 and February 10 of that year, during which he caused or incited a 15-year-old girl to engage in sexual activities, despite not reasonably believing that she was 16 or older at the time.

Specifically, Bagley pleaded guilty to two separate counts: one for inciting the girl to perform a sexual act and another for encouraging her to send him indecent photographs. The case drew attention due to the nature of the offences and the fact that Bagley did not have legal representation during the hearing. Prosecutor Andrew Scott outlined the circumstances, stating, “It seems he has gone on Facebook on a whim, not planning his actions, and spoke to her making suggestions of meeting up and having sex. He later asked her to send what he described as cheeky photos.”

Mr. Scott further noted that Bagley is considered to be of good character overall, and emphasized that he was unrepresented at the time of the offences. The court acknowledged that Bagley would require assistance from the probation service moving forward.

Judge Michael Heath, presiding over the case, granted Bagley bail to allow for the preparation of a probation report, and scheduled the sentencing for August 23. The judge explained to Bagley, “Before I sentence you I want a report on you, that will give me much more information. I am not in a position today of saying you will not go to prison, but the fact you have pleaded guilty and were unrepresented will go very much in your favour. There is an obligation now to sign on the so-called sex offenders register. The length of time will depend on the sentence.”

As the case proceeds, the court will consider all factors before determining the appropriate punishment, but the guilty plea and Bagley's self-representation are noted as significant elements in the ongoing legal process.