Schoolboy's campaign of terror

The youth, who cannot be named, appeared at Keighley Youth Court on Friday morning. He was convicted of assault and serious harassment.

The youth repeatedly made violent and sexual threats to then girl, who also cannot be named for legal reasons

His influence has mentally scarred the girl, causing her to fear for her safety and suffer from depression.

The youth has persistently denied the charges and was said to show no remorse until he was told he faced imprisonment.

Sentencing, lay magistrate Mrs AF Hardy said: "This is the most appalling case I have ever heard in these courts."

When the youth grinned, she added: "You are obviously enjoying it.

"You have ruined that girl's life - from an outgoing, jolly girl, you have made her a recluse.

"We have no alternative than to send you to prison."

He was sentenced to four months in young offenders' institution.

He will serve half of this before being released under supervision for three months. If he re-offends in this time, he will return to custody.

A two-year restraining order, preventing him from contacting the victim has also been served.

The youth was arrested and interviewed - and subsequently bailed - by police last July, and was arrested again in August when he had gone to the girl's home.

The incidents of harassment - which included verbal abuse and minor assault - took place in and around the local school they both attended.

The boy ignored several warnings from school staff about his behaviour.

Police found the youth's fingerprints on notes sent to the girl.

A police spokesman says: "Schoolboy infatuations when taken too far can ruin a young girl's life.

"This girl was subjected to a terrifying ordeal and hopefully the sentence will serve as a warning to others about the consequences of this type of behaviour."

Opinion p10

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