Devon man jailed for sending sexual messages to Somerset teen
Steven Thomas (41) from Exeter, has been sentenced to more than two years behind bars
A man from Exeter will serve more than two years in prison after being found guilty of sending sexual messages to a child.
Steven Thomas, who is 41 has been sentenced to two years and four months behind bars after being convicted at Bristol Crown Court, of causing/inciting a girl aged 13-15 to engage in sexual activity.
He will also be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and a notification requirement for 10 years.
The sentence relates to an investigation in which Thomas sent a large number of sexual messages and requests to a girl from Taunton over a two-year period.
During the sentencing, the judge commended the strength and resilience of Thomas’ victim throughout the investigation.
Detective Superintendent Louise Findlay from Avon and Somerset Police said: “The victim in this case has shown tremendous strength and courage in not only coming forward and reporting this, but also in continuing to support the investigation through trial while the defendant continued to deny his actions.
“I thank the officer in the case, PC Shannon Eyres, for her commitment to providing outstanding service and care to the victim.
“Avon and Somerset Police continues to commit to providing victims of rape and serious sexual offences with the care and support they require and remain driven in the pursuit of those committing these offences.”
If you have been impacted by this story or are a survivor of sexual abuse yourself, you can access support via this link.