A convicted sex offender from Somerset has been handed a 12-month prison sentence after approaching two school girls and asking a sexually explicit question as they walked home.
David Blackwood, aged 58, from Trinity Road in Combe Down, pleaded guilty to engaging in sexual communication with a child, failing to comply with the Sex Offenders’ Register requirements, and violating a sexual harm prevention order.
The sentencing took place at Bristol Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, March 3. Blackwood will remain on the Sex Offenders’ Register for the next 10 years and has been ordered to pay a £187 victim surcharge along with £84 in court costs.
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The incident occurred on February 4 near Bath, when Blackwood approached the two girls and asked a sexually explicit question before fleeing the scene. The police were contacted by one of the victim’s mothers, leading to Blackwood’s arrest and subsequent charges on February 11.
During his arrest, authorities discovered Blackwood had a new bank card in his possession which had not been registered, violating his supervision conditions.
Neighbourhood Inspector Dudley Bond condemned the incident, praising the children’s courage to report the incident to a trusted adult. He highlighted the thorough police investigation that helped secure the custodial sentence, emphasizing that this outcome helps prevent further harm within the community.
Inspector Bond also reassured victims that police are committed to listening, believing, and supporting those affected by abuse. He encouraged anyone concerned about their safety or a child’s safety to come forward, noting that dedicated teams are ready to act quickly to provide protection.