Sex offender fled to Thailand to avoid jail after committing sexual assault.

Sex Offender Flees to Thailand to Avoid Jail Sentence

Paul Strong, 65, of High Street, Weedon, has fled to Thailand to avoid serving a jail sentence for sexual assault. Strong was found guilty following a trial and subsequently invited to attend Northampton Crown Court for his sentencing hearing.

Despite the invitation, Strong responded to court staff with abuse, making it clear he intends to never return to the UK or engage with the court process. As a result, he was sentenced in his absence at Northampton Crown Court on Friday, March 10.

Strong was unrepresented during the sentencing as he withdrew instructions from his defence barrister. The victim, in her statement, described the profound impact of Strong's actions, stating that she was left unable to eat, sleep, or function normally. She constantly felt "on edge" and suffered financially due to being unable to work for 10 weeks.

The victim also expressed feelings of isolation, fearing encounters with Strong in public, and a loss of trust in others. "This is just his way of using emotional torture, trying to make my life hell," she said.

Strong has a history of criminal convictions, including possession of an offensive weapon and breach of a restraining order. During the interview, Strong acknowledged his alcohol dependency and post-traumatic stress disorder, for which he was receiving medication.

Her Honour Judge Rebecca Crane sentenced Strong to three years in prison. He was also placed on the Sex Offenders Register for seven years and a restraining order was imposed for 10 years.