Sunderland man 'ashamed of himself' after groping teenager
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A man who sexually assaulted a stranger in a business premises has kept his freedom.Paul Sawyers sat next to the teenager and groped her.
The now 22-year-old, of The Oaks West, Sunderland, who has a criminal record but no prior convictions for sex offences, was arrested afterwards.
He later admitted one count of sexual assault.
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Hide AdAt Newcastle Crown Court Mr Recorder Gordon told him: "I must deal with you for a single but very serious matter. You're now 22-years-of-age, at the time the offence was committed you were 20-years-old."
The court heard Sawyers entered the premises and "touched her intimately", but it was accepted that it was over her clothing.The judge added: "It has continued to affect her. This was a gross invasion of her privacy."
Lee Fish, defending Sawyers, told the court a suspended sentence could be imposed to allow his client to get the help he needs.
He said: "In my submission a sentence of imprisonment with all of the conditions which are imposed will not only help the defendant but it will also help the public because this is a defendant, who while he is still just ayoung man, has to sort himself out."
Mr Fish added: "He is thoroughly ashamed of himself."
The court heard he also has family support.
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Hide AdHe sentenced him to nine months suspended for two years, alongside 65 days of rehabilitation activities.
Sawyers must also complete 12 sessions of a sex offender's course and a mental health treatment programme.
The judge added: "There are people prepared to help you. I've offered you a lot of help, take it."
Sawyers must also sign the sex offender's register for ten years.