MICHAEL WRIGHT FROM HULL ESCAPES BAIL AND IS REMANDED IN CUSTODY AFTER SEX OFFENSES

In a troubling development in Hull, a 28-year-old man named Michael Wright has been placed in custody after he managed to abscond from a residential facility designated for individuals with mental disabilities. Wright had been residing at this centre under strict bail conditions following his guilty plea at Hull Crown Court to engaging in sexual activity with a girl aged just 14. The bail arrangement was specifically put in place to allow Wright to undergo additional medical assessments, given his diagnosis of Asperger's syndrome, a condition on the autism spectrum that influences social interactions and behavior.

Wright's criminal conduct came to light after it was revealed that he had met the young girl through Facebook. The two subsequently engaged in sexual activity in Pearson Park, a well-known public space in Hull. His case has garnered significant attention, as he is scheduled to appear again before the court, where a decision will be made regarding whether he should be sentenced to prison or transferred to a secure medical facility for treatment.

Earlier in March 2012, Wright faced further scrutiny when it was reported that he had groomed a schoolgirl over a period of a month via Facebook. Initially believed to be mentally ill, Wright was thought to be suitable for a hospital order. However, subsequent medical evaluations concluded that he was mentally fit to stand trial, leading to the possibility of a prison sentence. The court heard that Wright had been living at South Ferriby Hall, a residence catering to individuals with mental disabilities, at the time of his offenses.

Judge Jeremy Richardson QC expressed his reservations about sending Wright to prison, emphasizing that he did not wish to do so but would do what was necessary if circumstances required. The judge acknowledged Wright’s special needs but also highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the appropriate sentencing. He stated, “It was hoped that you would have been sentenced by now. I will pass sentence for the crime you committed. I do not know what the right sentence will be. There is a risk that you could be sent to prison. I am keeping all options open as things have changed since I last met you, when it was anticipated you would be admitted to hospital.”

Wright initially claimed to police that he believed the girl was 17 years old, but he later accepted that she was only 14. The prosecution, led by Caroline Wigin, argued that Wright was aware of her age, noting that he had been exchanging sexually explicit messages with her around her 14th birthday. The Crown maintained that Wright did not reasonably believe she was over 16, and a jury was sworn in for a trial. However, after the prosecution’s opening statement, Wright changed his plea to guilty.

The case was further complicated when the girl’s mother contacted police after her daughter failed to return home on August 20. Officers found the girl in Wright’s bedroom at approximately 4:15 a.m. the following morning. Despite being warned that the girl was only 14, Wright’s actions did not cease. Weeks later, the girl was seen again, and she later disclosed to officers that she had engaged in sexual activity with Wright in Pearson Park. She was subsequently found by police officers at Paragon Interchange, where she confirmed what had transpired.

Following his arrest, Wright was released on bail, but the court has now ordered the Probation Service to prepare a pre-sentence report to determine the appropriate course of action. The case continues to raise concerns about the adequacy of supervision and the challenges involved in managing offenders with mental health conditions, especially those with autism spectrum disorders.