Man jailed for sexually abusing teenage girl

Martin Steele received a sexual harm prevention order as part of his sentence

A man has been jailed after admitting multiple sexual offences involving a teenage girl.

Martin Steele, of High Street North, Tiffield, pleaded guilty to six offences of engaging in sexual activity with a child and one of sexual communication with a child at Northampton Crown Court in July.

At a sentencing hearing at the same court on Friday, the 63-year-old was handed a prison term of six years and nine months.

Det Con Kirstie Brooks of Northamptonshire Police described Steele as a "very predatory individual".

'Haunt me'

The offences took place over a sustained period in 2024, but only came to light when a third party reported concerns to police.

During this time, he sent numerous text messages of a sexual nature to the victim, frequently commented on her physical appearance, and encouraged her to take part in sexual acts as part of what he described as their "relationship".

The court also imposed a sexual harm prevention order and a restraining order preventing any contact with the victim.

A statement from the survivor, read in court, detailed the lasting impact on her.

"This crime will be something I remember for the rest of my life and will haunt me every day," it said.

"Each day I'm getting stronger, but I will never forget what I was put through for years without seeing anything wrong with it."