Ian Hunter

Ian Hunter, 33, from Ashington, was sentenced at Newcastle Crown Court to eight years imprisonment following his conviction for sexually assaulting a child under the age of 13. Hunter had denied the offence but was found guilty following a trial where the victim provided evidence. Judge Tim Gittins described the abuse as 'sickening' and commended the victim for her strength in reporting the matter.

In passing the sentence, Judge Gittins noted that despite assessments regarding the defendant's limited intellect, he was satisfied Hunter understood the gravity of his actions. The judge expressed hope that the victim would come to see herself as a survivor of the abuse.

In addition to the custodial sentence, Hunter is required to sign the sex offenders register and is subject to an indefinite sexual harm prevention order, which restricts his contact with children.