Michael Cooper

A delivery driver who groomed a 15-year-old girl before sexually assaulting her has avoided immediate prison — despite a judge highlighting his abuse of trust and the harm he caused.

Michael Cooper, 69, kissed the schoolgirl on the lips and attempted to put his tongue in her mouth during an incident in Newhaven. The girl froze. Cooper, who worked as an Evri delivery driver, later admitted sexual activity with a child.

The court heard Cooper had become increasingly physical towards the girl. When she began a relationship, he became jealous and told her he was heartbroken. During a conversation about her boyfriend, Cooper leaned towards her and kissed her.

Police arrested him in March 2024 following a report from a third party. Officers seized his devices and discovered a message referring to his desire to have sex with the girl once she turned 16.

In her victim impact statement, the girl said Cooper had disregarded the boundaries she repeatedly tried to establish. She said he claimed his grooming was intended to improve her confidence and self-esteem.

Sentencing Cooper, Recorder David Brock identified the grooming, breach of trust and substantial age difference as aggravating factors.

Cooper, of no fixed abode, received 20 weeks’ imprisonment suspended for two years, with 150 hours of unpaid work and 15 rehabilitation activity days.

A sexual harm prevention order and a restraining order were also imposed.