Targeted girls as young as 12 and tried to convince them to meet for sex.

Former University Challenge Contestant Jailed for Sexually Explicit Messages to Young Girls

Andrew Newton, a former contestant on the popular quiz show "University Challenge," has been sentenced to 16 months in prison for sending indecent messages to young girls.

Inverness Sheriff Court heard that Newton, who is now 25, sent explicit messages to girls as young as 12. He also attempted to persuade them to meet him for sex.

Sheriff David Sutherland described Newton as a "nasty, perverted little spider," adding that his actions were "deplorable and deeply concerning."

The court was told that Newton had previously been cautioned for similar offenses. He had also been ordered to attend a sex offenders' treatment program.

Newton's lawyer pleaded for leniency, arguing that his client was remorseful and had sought help for his problems. However, the sheriff said that a custodial sentence was necessary to protect the public.