MARTIN HUTCHINSON FROM GATESHEAD AVOIDS PRISON AFTER GROOMING SCHOOLGIRL IN DURHAM

In July 2017, a soldier who groomed a schoolgirl online for sexual activity was spared a prison sentence. On 30 June, Martin Lee Hutchinson, aged 31, originally from Gateshead and now residing in Durham, was found guilty by a Newcastle Crown Court jury of charges including causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and arranging or facilitating a child sex offence.

The court was informed that Hutchinson initiated contact with the 14-year-old victim through online communication. The conversation quickly became sexually explicit, with Hutchinson sending images of his naked body to the girl. He manipulated her into believing she was his girlfriend and persuaded her to keep their relationship secret.

Prosecutors revealed that Hutchinson convinced the schoolgirl to meet him on several occasions, during which sexual intercourse occurred. It was noted that Hutchinson was fully aware of the girl’s age; on one meeting, he saw her in her school uniform.

In sentencing, the judge handed Hutchinson a 24-month prison term, suspended for two years. Additionally, Hutchinson was ordered to participate in a 30-day rehabilitation activity, attend a 54-day sex offender programme, and comply with a sexual harm prevention order until further notice. He is also required to register as a sex offender for the next ten years.