Barnstaple man jailed for sexual offences against under-16 girl
Jailed for 32 months and subject to a prevention and restraining order
Daniel Mansford, a 26-year-old from Barnstaple, has been sentenced to 32 months in prison for committing sexual offences against a girl aged under 16.
Mansford, who resides at Rumsam Gardens, pleaded guilty on the day his trial was set to begin at Exeter Crown Court, admitting to five counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with the victim.
The offences occurred over six months when the girl was 14 years old.
According to reports presented at the court, Mansford was aware of the victim's age yet continued his inappropriate conduct, including grooming via social media platforms.
The situation came to light after the victim confided in a teacher.
Following his arrest by Devon & Cornwall Police, Mansford remained silent during interviews.
Evidence gathered included screenshots from the victim’s phone revealing messages with explicit content from Mansford.
On Thursday 3rd September, he was handed a 32-month prison sentence at Exeter Crown Court.
Additionally, Mansford is now subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a restraining order.
Neil Young from Devon & Cornwall Police’s North Devon CID remarked on the case, stating: “The defendant knew that the victim was a child. As soon as Mansford became aware of the victim's age, he should have immediately ended all contact. Instead, he made a conscious decision to continue his pursuit, exploit the vulnerabilities of that young person and engage in sexual activity.”
“This conviction demonstrates Devon & Cornwall Police’s commitment to protecting children and holding offenders accountable for their actions.”