A MAN who met a vulnerable young teenager at a bus stop in Cornwall and invited her for a drink and then went on to engage in sexual activity with her been jailed for six years. 

Jonathan Simpson, 32, from the St Austell area, appeared at Truro Crown Court for sentencing on Friday, October 2, after being found guilty by a jury of a charge of engaging in sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 15 

The court heard how the offence took place in early 2023 when the victim was 14 and vulnerable. 

The teenager described to police officers how Simpson asked her if she wanted to go for a drink and she agreed. 

They had met at a bus stop in the St Austell area and then drank and stayed for several days at Simpson’s caravan. 

During this time, Simpson proceeded to sexually assault the victim despite being 28 and knowing she was 14. He engaged in penetrative sexual activity with the girl and DNA analysis found his semen on the victim’s clothes. 

Following the court case, Detective Constable David Squire 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.” 

Devon and Cornwall Police are reminding the public that support is available. A spokesperson said: “You can visit victimcare-dc.org to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system. 

“You can also call Victim Support on 0808 1689 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.”