Louth man admits inciting a 15-year-old girl to engage in sexual activity

Joshua Bagley, 21, pleaded guilty to two charges of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity when he represented himself during a hearing at Lincoln Crown Court today (Tuesday).

Both offences happened between February 3 and February 10 this year when Bagley did not reasonably believe that the girl, who can not be named, was aged 16 or over.

The offences relate to one charge of inciting the girl to commit a sexual act and a second charge of inciting the same child to send him indecent photos.

Andrew Scott, prosecuting, said: “It seems he has gone on Facebook on a whim, not planning his actions, and spoke to her making suggestions of meeting up and having sex.

“He later asked her to send what he described as cheeky photos.”

Mr Scott added: “He is of good character, is unrepresented and will need the assistance of the probation service.”

Judge Michael Heath granted Bagley, of Trinity Court, Louth, bail for the preparation of a probation report and adjourned sentence until 23 August.

The judge told Bagley: “Before I sentence you I want a report on you, that will give me much more information.

“I am not in a position today of saying you will not go to prison, but the fact you have pleaded guilty and were unrepresented will go very much in your favour.

“There is an obligation now to sign on the so-called sex offenders register. The length of time will depend on the sentence.”