A Derbyshire Paedophile Michael Scott individual has forfeited his residence, spouse, and employment after he “exploited and mistreated” an underage girl for sexual purposes over a two-year duration and threatened to murder her if she disclosed the abuse. Prosecutors presented the court with a graphic and detailed narrative of Michael Scott’s mistreatment.
Michael Scott, 48, commenced the exploitation of the girl following their interactions on social media. A friend of the victim subsequently observed explicit photographs on her phone that had been transferred between the two individuals. Videos and images of Michael Scott, who is homeless, assaulting the girl were subsequently discovered on his phone.
His activities, perpetrated in the Derby region, were characterised in court as “degrading and repugnant.” Michael Scott has been sentenced to six years in prison, marking his inaugural incarceration. He is prohibited from any interaction with females under the age of 18 and is registered as a sex offender, subject to an indefinite sexual harm prevention order.
Henry James, prosecuting, informed Derby Crown Court on Tuesday, 7 June: “He inundated her with gifts stemming from a perverse and sexual fascination.” She had confusion. She recognised it was erroneous. Mr. Michael Scott methodically exploited her as an object for his own degradation and abuse.
Mr. James stated that the gifts comprised a laptop, and the victim subsequently recounted to the police a “catalogue of foul and depraved” activities perpetrated by Michael Scott. Examinations of Michael Scott’s mobile device revealed internet enquiries regarding the admissibility of iMessages as evidence in legal proceedings.
In a brief victim personal statement, delivered by Mr. James, the victim expressed: “At the time of the incident, I felt fearful and anxious.” He threatened to murder me. I felt unsafe. I believe I am managing the situation effectively.
Michael Scott, lacking any prior convictions, entered a guilty plea to two charges of engaging in sexual relations with a minor on March 23. The prosecution accepted pleas of not guilty to three charges of possessing indecent photographs, which were subsequently regarded as an aggravating factor of the offences.
James Varley, in defence, stated that Michael Scott had been allotted time by another judge to organise his affairs, which included placing his narrowboat residence in storage and resigning from his employment. Mr. Varley stated that his wife had departed as a result of his transgressions.
He stated: “This is a 48-year-old man who risks losing his reputation.” He has laboured throughout his entire life. He will forfeit his means of income as his plant operating licenses will expire, and upon his release, he will need to begin anew.
“He has spent the past few weeks elucidating to his family the events that transpired and their subsequent ramifications.” His family has gathered to support him, serving as a more powerful testimonial to his character. I am not implying that they have absolved him, but they have approached him to express some affection. He is a man of considerable virtue.
He has demonstrated considerable sincerity and realism in recent weeks. I present to the court authentic contrition.
Judge Shaun Smith QC sentenced Michael Scott to consecutive six-year terms for both offences, stating: “You inundated her with gifts and attention, and over a two-year span, you cultivated a relationship with her and subjected her to abuse in a profoundly significant and unimaginable manner.” According to the prosecutor, you consistently exploited and mistreated her.
“You documented certain events, and although they no longer constitute charges, they exacerbate your situation.” Your phone included photographs depicting your abuse of her. Your actions are beyond the comprehension of any ordinary individual.
“The entire situation was degrading and repugnant, and it was orchestrated by you, a 48-year-old adult.” Your demands evidently overwhelmed you, as you had previously exhibited commendable character. You possessed a commendable reputation, which you have now forfeited; you had a means of sustenance, which you have now relinquished; you formerly had a residence, which you have now abandoned.
Michael Scott will complete fifty percent of his term in confinement before being released on parole. He is required to sign the sex offender register and is indefinitely subject to a sexual harm prevention order, prohibiting any kind of contact with girls under 18 and direct or indirect communication with the victim.
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.