January 2009

Paedophile jailed for sex attacks

A paedophile was jailed for more than four years yesterday after launching sex attacks on two children.

Oxford Crown Court heard Peter Paskneal, of Rectory Road, East Oxford, performed ‘sex acts’ on a boy and a girl in May 2008.

Kate Mallison, prosecuting, said the 52-year-old told a psychiatrist that the boy instigated the activity, but added: “The instigation for the sexual activity came from the defendant, not from his victim.

“The defendant’s DNA was found in the underwear of both children.”

In a statement read to the court, one victim’s mother said: “Her behaviour has changed since that awful day. Sometimes she screams out in her sleep at night.

“She is very paranoid about the doors and windows being locked. She said she is scared in case someone comes in and gets her while she is asleep.”

Paskneal, also known as Eric, admitted two charges of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

Stephen Parker, defending, said: “He is remorseful for his behaviour. He says he hopes it has not psychologically affected the children.”

Judge Patrick Eccles jailed Paskneal for four and a half years, ordered him to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register indefinitely and banned him from working with children or being alone unsupervised with them.

He said: “There is evidence from their victim impact statements that they are emotionally damaged at the moment and that is your responsibility.

“It is no surprise that their parents feel hurt, disgust and anger.”