Ilkeston pervert jailed for sexual assault on four-year-old girl

David Knighton, aged 51, of Dovedale Circle was found guilty following a trial, on October 22, of one count of sexual assault on the child, which took place in 2013.

Judge Gregory Dickinson jailed him for five years at Nottingham Crown Court on Friday. He was also put on a sexual offences prevention order for ten years, prohibiting him with contact with females under 16. Knighton still denies the offence.

Judge Dickinson QC told Knighton: "The jury were convinced she (the victim) was telling the truth. It was an extremely serious offence against a young child. Whoever you are and whatever your upbringing it's your role to protect a four-year-old.

"The child had to come to court to give evidence, she had an unnecessary experience."

In mitigation, it was stated that Knighton, who was said to be suicidal, was from a family that had clearly had difficulties. He had previous convictions for threatening behavior and was cautioned in 1989 and 1991 for having sex with girls aged 15 when he was in his 20s.

In mitigation, Mark Knowles, said: "Mr Knighton is at a very low ebb. He is living on a temporary basis with friends because none of his family speak to him.

"You honour is dealing with an individual who has his own difficulties. He may have some kind of learning difficulty and medical difficulties. Any spell in custody will be very difficult."

Knighton is expected to serve half his sentence behind bars before being released on licence.