Rotherham man jailed for child sex offence

A 35-YEAR-OLD man has been jailed for over seven years after admitting having sex with a 15-year-old girl.

Gareth Dean Ball, of Rotherview Road in Canklow, pleaded guilty to sexual activity with a child under 16.

Ball supplied the girl with alcohol last August before engaging in sexual activity with her, Sheffield Crown Court heard last Thursday.

He was sentenced to seven years and eight months’ imprisonment.

Det Con Carla Dodsworth said: “This man took advantage of the trust of a young girl.

“I feel that the sentence he has received reflects the seriousness of the offence and I hope it will enable the girl and her family to try and move forward.”

Anyone affected by child sexual abuse who would like to speak with specially trained officers can call South Yorkshire Police on 101.

Alternatively call Childline on 0800 11 11, call the NSPCC 24-hour Child Protection Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or text the charity on 88858.