70-year-old sex offender has been jailed for assaulting a child.

70-Year-Old Sex Offender Jailed for Assaulting Child

Geoffrey Abson, of Derrell Road, Paignton, has been sentenced to 16 months in prison for assaulting a seven-year-old child.

Exeter Crown Court heard that Abson touched the child between the legs on two separate occasions. He initially denied wrongdoing but later admitted he needed help.

Abson is a convicted sex offender with a previous conviction for a similar offense in 1989. The defendant expressed remorse, stating he was "disgusted and ashamed of his actions."

Judge David Evans, during sentencing, stated: "I have to sentence you for not one but two assaults on a girl aged under 13. You hold distorted sexual attitudes towards children."

Judge Evans emphasized that immediate imprisonment was the only suitable sentence, deeming the offense too serious for a suspended sentence or any other alternative.

Abson was also issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order prohibiting him from contacting girls under the age of 16.