A West Cumbrian man has been jailed for child sex offences.
Jamie Hardy, 34, of Meadow Road, Whitehaven was sentenced to five years and four months in prison for meeting a girl under 16 following sexual grooming, engaging in sexual communication with a child and three counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl
The offences are against one victim.
He was also given a restraining order and sexual harm prevention order.
Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Constable Kathryn Chestney said “Hardy was aware of the victim’s age when he committed the offences and denied them in interview.
“In attempt to hide his offending Hardy wiped his phone removing any evidence of his communication with the child.
“He did this the day after officers were contacted and was aware he was wanted by officers.
“This sentence demonstrates to the public how seriously such offending is taken.
“If you are a child or young person and have been affected by sexual abuse, please tell someone and report this to police so that we can investigate.
“Your report will be dealt with sensitively and professionally.”
