William Palmer, 23, sentenced to two years and eight months in prison for sexual offenses against a child.

William Palmer, of Wisteria Drive, Verwood, was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison at Bournemouth Crown Court after admitting charges of engaging in sexual communication with a child and engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity with a child under the age of 16.

Judge Jonathan Fuller QC stated that Palmer "exploited" the teenager and "pressured" her into sending intimate pictures after he first sent an image of male genitalia. The judge described Palmer's actions, which developed over a "significant period of time", as "typical manipulation" of a child.

The judge highlighted the "significant disparity" in age between Palmer and the victim, emphasizing that he was "fully aware of her age and… at risk of going to prison." Despite this, Palmer continued his actions for a significant period.

Prosecutor Emma Smith revealed that Palmer was arrested after the child disclosed the abuse to the police. Initially, Palmer denied sending or receiving any explicit images, claiming his account had been hijacked. Under further questioning, he admitted to exchanging messages but claimed the girl had initiated the exchange of images.

Regarding the sexual activity, Palmer initially denied it before making admissions and suggesting it was consensual and instigated by the teenager. However, in court, he accepted that he had instigated both the messaging and the sexual activity.

During the outlining of the facts, Palmer spent long periods with his head down in the dock.

Defense barrister Robert Grey argued that Palmer had no prior convictions and expressed remorse for his actions. He also mentioned Palmer's history of depression and anxiety for the past five years, stating that he lacked confidence. Mr. Grey requested a suspended sentence, but Judge Fuller QC dismissed this option, stating that it would not adequately reflect the seriousness of the offense.

In addition to the prison sentence, Palmer was placed on the sex offenders register.