A child sex abuser has been given a 10-year extended prison sentence after he admitted a series of offences involving a 15-year-old girl.
James Wadhawan, 35, was jailed for six years at Hove Crown Court and told that he must serve an extra four years on licence.
Judge Christine Henson imposed an indefinite restraining order and said that he would be a registered sex offender for life.
Wadhawan was described as a dangerous and predatory offender who targeted and groomed a young girl for his own gratification.
Sussex Police said: “James Wadhawan has been jailed for sexual offences involving a teenage girl in Lancing.
“Wadhawan, 35, of Penalverne Crescent, in Penzance, was issued with a child abduction warning notice (CAWN) in January 2024, following reports of inappropriate contact with teenager.
“On Saturday 9 March 2024, police received a report of Wadhawan having been seen with the victim in Lancing.
“Officers engaged with the girl and her family while Wadhawan was arrested later that evening.
“He was released on bail with strict conditions while further inquiries were carried out.
“On Wednesday 13 March 2024, Wadhawan was found again with the girl on a bridge in Lancing and arrested.
“He was charged with two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 15 and one count of child abduction and remanded in custody.
“Wadhawan pleaded guilty to all charges at Hove Crown Court and on Tuesday 1 July was jailed for 10 years, given an indefinite restraining order against the victim and will be a registered sex offender for life.”
Detective Chief Inspector Mehdi Fallahi said: “James Wadhawan is a predatory offender who targeted a young girl for his own vile gratification.
“I would like to express my deep gratitude to the victim and her family for their bravery and unwavering commitment throughout the investigation which played a vital role in putting a dangerous man behind bars.
“I would also like to commend Investigator Sophie Williams on her diligent investigation.
“Sussex Police remains committed to protecting women and girls which includes close work with our partners to ensure young people are safe from grooming and exploitation.
“If you are a victim of sexual offending, please report it to us online or via 101. We will support you and we will do everything we can to get you justice.
“Always dial 999 in an emergency.”
