October 2008
Milkman’s sex assault on teenage girl
A 43-YEAR-OLD milkman who molested a teenage girl has received a suspended jail term.
The 15-year-old victim of Stephen Burrow had been helping out at a business near Garstang where he was a customer.
Preston Crown Court prosecutor Judith McCullough told the court that the girl had gone outside during a break.
The defendant appeared in the doorway and the two began to “mess around” Miss McCullough said. He prevented her from going back in and held her hands behind her back.
Burrow then touched her breasts over her clothing and put his hand inside her bra, Miss McCullough told the court. As she tried to get away she grazed her elbow and injured her leg.
Other members of staff thought she seemed distressed and upset, Miss McCullough added. When Burrow was seen by police he initially insisted nothing had happened.
Burrow, formerly of Church Street, Churchtown, (but now of Catterall – 2013) pleaded guilty to a charge of sexual assault.
Christopher Hudson, defending, provided the court with what he called “glowing references from males and females who know the nature of the allegation”.
On the night he had gone outside for a cigarette, there was general banter and he had “lost his marbles”.
Judge Edward Slinger passed a six-month prison term, suspended for two years.
Burrow was told he would be on the Sex Offenders’ Register for five years. In addition, the judge ordered him to pay £1,000 compensation to his victim and £900 court costs.
“I hope it will be understood that you are guilty and there should be no suggestion you have not done it.
“You have thrown away what has been a good character,” stressed the judge.
