A 32-year-old man, Gareth Nye, from Bridgend, has been sentenced to eight months in prison for sexually assaulting a young girl on two separate occasions.

The court heard that Nye, who was diagnosed with autism, abused the girl under the pretense of tickling her. He also sent her inappropriate messages, including "I wish I was the one who captured your heart," and "Don't tell your mummy and daddy what I talk about with you."

The abuse came to light when the victim, who was given a phone for Christmas, showed her mother the messages. The mother immediately became concerned and contacted the police. Although the victim initially did not disclose the sexual assaults, she later revealed the abuse to her mother after having a nightmare.

Nye was found guilty of two counts of sexual assault after two trials. Despite the verdict, he continues to maintain his innocence. This was considered an aggravating factor by the judge, Recorder John Philpotts.

In a victim impact statement, the victim's mother described the devastating impact the abuse has had on her daughter. She stated that her daughter became withdrawn and quiet, and has experienced outbursts of rage and anger since the abuse.

The mother also expressed her outrage at Nye's actions and the lasting damage he has caused. She said: "What (the defendant) has done to my daughter is incomprehensible. I will never forget him for taking away my daughter's innocence."

In mitigation, Nye's lawyer argued that his client was of previous good character and would struggle in a custodial setting. However, the judge sentenced Nye to eight months imprisonment, as well as imposing sex offender notification requirements, a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, and a restraining order indefinitely.