October 2018 South Shields man who had sex with underage girl at party set free after appeal A man who had sex with an underage girl at a party has been set free by senior judges after an appeal. Scott Hope Pollin, of Winskell Road, South Shields, was jailed for 12 months at Durham Crown Court on May 17. The 21-year-old was convicted of sexual activity with a child, but acquitted of rape. Judge Keith Cutler QC told London’s Appeal Court on Wednesday that Pollin was a teenager himself when had sex with the 13-year-old victim at a party. The jurors, by their verdict, were sure that Pollin did not reasonably believe his victim was aged over 16, he added. But Susan Hirst, for Pollin, argued that his jail term was far too harsh and should be reduced. The barrister pointed to the long delay between the offence and Pollin’s sentencing. Judge Cutler said: “Whilst there had to be a custodial sentence, we are of the view that 12 months is manifestly excessive.” Sitting with two other judges, he allowed the appeal and reduced Pollin’s jail term to eight months. It is understood that the sentence reduction will mean that Pollin is released immediately.