Jonathan Simpson from St Austell jailed for sexual abuse of girl, 14

A meeting at a bus stop in the St Austell area led to several days at a caravan, and three years later to a six-year prison sentence.

Jonathan Simpson, 32, from the St Austell area, was sentenced at Truro Crown Court on Friday 2 October. A jury had found him guilty of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 15.

What the court heard

The offence took place in early 2023. The girl was 14 at the time and was described as vulnerable. Jonathan was 28.

She told officers that he asked her if she wanted to go for a drink, and she agreed.

The pair met at a bus stop in the St Austell area. They then drank and stayed for several days at Jonathan’s caravan, where the offence took place.

The court heard that he knew she was 14.

DNA analysis found his semen on the girl’s clothes.

What the police have said

Detective Constable David Squire, the officer in the case, said: “Jonathan Simpson took advantage of the victim’s vulnerability and proceeded to groom and exploit her for his own sexual gratification.

“Simpson was fully aware of the victim’s age yet carried on regardless.

“I would like to thank the victim for having the courage to disclose what happened to her, and for remaining engaged in the legal process, resulting in Simpson being convicted for the sexual offence.”

More court and police news from across Cornwall is available on CornishStuff.

Support available

If you have been affected by this article, there is support available.

• Victim Care Devon and Cornwall has support services, information on your rights and guidance on the criminal justice system.
• Victim Support: 0808 1689 111
• Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit: 01392 475900
• National Rape Crisis Helpline: 0808 802 9999
• Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC): 0300 3034626

Devon and Cornwall Police also has information on reporting rape and sexual assault.

📷Jonathan Simpson. Credit: Devon and Cornwall Police