Doncaster Man Sentenced for Sexual Offences Against Minor in 1980s and 1990s

Neil Bolton, 50, of Norfolk Avenue, Bircotes, has been placed under supervision for one year and ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work after being convicted of sexual offenses against a 14-year-old girl in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Bolton appeared at Lerwick Sheriff Court on Wednesday, where he was also placed on the sex offenders register for one year. He previously pleaded guilty to using lewd, indecent and libidinous practices and behavior towards the girl at a Lerwick address on various occasions between March 14, 1989, and March 13, 1990, and repeatedly sexually penetrating her.

The court heard that the relationship between Bolton, then aged 21-22, and the 14-year-old girl began in 1989. The relationship ended a few months later when Bolton's mother discovered the relationship and expressed concern about the age difference.

The offenses came to light in 2015 when Bolton initially denied knowing the girl. In court, Bolton's defense attorney, Tommy Allan, highlighted that almost 30 years had passed since the offense. He argued for a period of supervision as a suitable sentence.

Sheriff Philip Mann acknowledged that the incident was not isolated, noting that Bolton had a previous conviction for a similar offense. However, he also acknowledged that the relationship was consensual and there was no element of coercion. Taking into account the time elapsed and Bolton's lack of offending since, the sheriff determined that jail was not the only option.