A man has been sentenced to prison for engaging in sexual activity with a minor after his partner reported his actions to the authorities.

Lewis Herman, who was 20 at the time, initiated contact with a 14-year-old girl on Snapchat, misrepresenting his age as 17. He requested explicit images from her and sent a video of himself engaging in a sexual act, according to ChronicleLive.

Subsequently, Herman arranged meetings with the girl where sexual activities occurred in his car in the Teesside region. This happened on more than one occasion, as disclosed in court.

During the sentencing, Recorder Christopher Rose informed Herman, now 21, residing on Westmorland Road, that his previous partner had alerted the police about the incidents involving the complainant.

Herman was found guilty of multiple charges, including sexual communication with a minor, causing a minor to witness a sexual act, engaging in sexual activity with a minor, and soliciting a minor for sexual activities. He admitted to facilitating the distribution of child abuse materials and encouraging the sharing of images.

The court sentenced Herman to six years in prison. Additionally, he is required to register as a sex offender for life and will be subjected to a sexual harm prevention order and a restraining order for a decade.

In a statement, the victim expressed the significant emotional toll the events had on her life, leading to worsened anxiety, sleep disturbances, and ongoing trauma. She mentioned feeling unsafe and experiencing panic attacks upon encountering individuals resembling Herman.

Victoria Lamballe, representing Herman, stated that while he challenges parts of the trial’s outcome, he acknowledges the jury’s decision and recognizes his problematic fixation on sexual matters.