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More on KentOnline
A pervert who has worked as a gym instructor and carried out voluntary work with youngsters has been jailed for three years for sex offences.
Michael Roche, of Alma Road, Sheerness, twice molested a young girl last year.
He denied two offences of sexual assault but was convicted by a jury at Maidstone Crown Court.
A judge said there was a further incident in which 22-year-old Roche “had a sexual assault in contemplation”.
"You are without insight and remorse, refusing to accept the verdicts. You present a risk of serious harm to young females" - Judge Charles Macdonald QC
Describing the offences as “opportunistic”, Richard Padley, defending, submitted a suspended sentence could be imposed.
Having left school at 17 after doing his first year of A Levels, he became a gym instructor and carried out voluntary work including football coaching for youngsters aged eight to 18, said Mr Padley.
“He was of good character,” he continued. “The offence is entirely out of character. He has done a lot of extensive work with young people. He doesn’t pose a threat.
“He is an asset to society, rather than a danger. He has an exemplary good character.
“A suspended sentence would allow him to show he is a good member of society. He is ambitious for the future.”
But Judge Charles Macdonald QC said a pre-sentence report suggested Roche was a “statutory dangerous offender”.
“I agree you are without insight and remorse, refusing to accept the verdicts,” he said. “You present a risk of serious harm to young females.”
But the judge said he did not have the power to impose a sentence for public protection.
“I am very concerned about your lack of insight and remorse,” he added.
Roche’s name will appear on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely and a sexual offences prevention order was imposed for 15 years.
He will be barred from working with children and vulnerable adults.
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