MICHAEL MATTHEWS FROM BATH IN COURT OVER SEX OFFENCE INVOLVING TEENAGE GIRL

In February 2009, a disturbing case involving a retired lorry driver from Bath came to light, highlighting serious concerns about inappropriate conduct towards a minor. Michael Matthews, aged 67, was brought before the court following allegations of indecent behavior directed at a teenage girl. The incident took place at Matthews' residence in Blagdon Park, Bath, where he invited the young girl, who was under the age of 16 and therefore legally protected from identification, along with her boyfriend.

According to court reports, Matthews made an inappropriate and lewd suggestion to the girl, asking her to show him her breasts. He claimed that his request was driven by a personal curiosity, stating he had never seen a woman naked. The girl, who was visiting Matthews' home, was reportedly so shocked and offended by his request that she immediately left the premises. She later confided in the police about the incident, which prompted her to report Matthews' behavior.

Following her complaint, Matthews was arrested and subsequently charged with causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. During the court proceedings, Matthews admitted to the charge, acknowledging that he had asked the girl’s boyfriend to facilitate the exposure of her breasts. He explained that his motivation was simply that he had never seen a naked woman before, although he denied offering her any money for her participation.

Prosecutor Lynne Matthews, representing the Crown at Bristol Crown Court, detailed the events of June 1, 2007, the day the offence occurred. She emphasized that Matthews' actions were inappropriate and that the girl was clearly distressed by his request. The girl’s account confirmed that she was at Matthews’ home when he made the request, and she was so offended that she left immediately. Her decision to report the incident to the police was a crucial step in bringing Matthews to justice.

In his defense, Charles Row argued that Matthews had not had any further contact with the victim since the incident. He also mentioned that Matthews had previously been assaulted by a member of the girl’s boyfriend’s family, an attack that was addressed by law enforcement authorities. Despite this, the court found it necessary to impose strict conditions on Matthews’ future conduct.

As part of his sentence, Matthews was ordered to complete a three-year community order, which includes supervision and mandatory attendance at the Thames Valley Sex Offender Programme. Additionally, he was placed under an indefinite Sex Offences Prevention Order and required to register as a sex offender for five years. The court also mandated Matthews to pay £250 towards prosecution costs, emphasizing the seriousness of his actions and the importance of safeguarding minors from such misconduct.