Man jailed for attempted rape of teenager in Morecambe
Florin Panainte sentenced to 14 years at Preston Crown Court
Florin Panainte has been sentenced to 14 years in prison after being found guilty of attempting to rape a teenager in Morecambe.
The 38-year-old, with no fixed address, attacked the girl at an address in Morecambe in October of the previous year.
Following the assault, the victim reported the incident to her family members, leading to Panainte’s arrest the same day.
After a trial at Preston Crown Court, the jury found Panainte guilty of attempted rape.
On 26th June, he returned to the dock for sentencing, receiving a 14-year sentence comprising nine years’ imprisonment and an extended five-year licence period.
In addition, he was made subject to a 20-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a 20-year restraining order.
Detective Constable Sam Ripley from Lancaster CID’s Child Protection Team commented on the conviction, calling the offence “abhorrent”.
Ripley praised the victim’s bravery, emphasising Lancashire Police’s commitment to supporting victims and investigating sexual assaults to ensure justice.
Ripley’s message affirmed that violence against women and girls will not be tolerated.
Victims of sexual assault are encouraged to report the crime to receive support and ensure thorough investigations that bring perpetrators to justice.