A Birmingham court recently heard how a 16-year-old boy, Harvey Charlton, used a mobile game to distract a six-year-old girl while sexually abusing her. The girl’s mother described watching the CCTV footage as the most harrowing experience she has ever endured.
The distressing video revealed Charlton telling the child, “let’s do what we always do,” a phrase that left the mother “riddled with anxiety.” Following the abuse, the victim’s behavior drastically changed, shifting from an outgoing and happy child to one who became cautious, needy, and even began speaking in a baby-like manner.
The mother further revealed that the girl struggled with bedtimes, and despite initially being accused of exaggerating, the changes in her daughter’s personality were heartbreaking to witness.
READ MORE: Experts Warn Against Sleeping with Fans On Amid UK Heatwave
READ MORE: National Grid Commits to Restoring Birmingham’s Colmore Row After Tarmac Controversy
Harvey Charlton, now 18 and from Garretts Green Road, Sheldon, was found guilty of rape, sexual assault of a child under 13, and engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child. On May 20, he was sentenced to a hospital order at Birmingham Crown Court.
During sentencing, Judge Andrew Smith KC highlighted the calculated nature of Charlton’s actions. He noted that the use of the mobile device to distract the girl was a deliberate tactic to facilitate the offense, stating, “His use of a mobile device and encouraging her to play a game whilst he offended are clear examples that can only be explained, in my assessment, by his seeking sexual gratification.”
Judge Smith acknowledged that while Charlton has shown some remorse, he continues to minimize his actions and experiences discomfort when discussing them. The judge also emphasized that Charlton poses a high ongoing risk and has therefore been placed under a restriction order, ensuring he cannot be released from the hospital without approval from the Secretary of State for Justice.