Man, 22, sentenced for sexual activity with a child

A 22-year-old man has been sentenced after pleading guilty to sexual activity with a child.

Bradley Coulson, previously of Northampton, was fully aware of the girl’s age when he met her, however despite this, he sent her sexual messages, before inviting her to his house for sexual activity.

The girl’s family reported her missing that night and police would later find her in Coulson’s bed. However, he denied that anything sexual had taken place and said he had simply allowed the young girl to sleep in his room.

He continued to deny that sexual activity had occurred despite compelling forensic evidence which proved the contrary.

Coulson would later go on to be charged with one count of sexual activity with the girl and pleaded guilty to the offence at the earliest opportunity following a hearing at Northampton Crown Court in December 2022.

He was sentenced for the offence at the same court this week (February 28) to nine years – four in prison and five on extended licence.

He was also issued with an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).

Lead Investigator – Detective Constable Hannah Roche, said: “Firstly, I would like to commend the young woman in this case for her bravery – not only in supporting our investigation but for her perseverance, as it was a lengthy investigation.

“This ordeal has had a profound effect on her and I know that she wrongly blamed herself, so I would like to mimic the words of His Honour Judge David Herbert KC, when he addressed Coulson in court – “Had it not been for you, the sexual activity that occurred would not have happened. You encouraged her to stay out late with you so you could take her home for sexual purposes… She should not blame herself. The responsibility is yours.”

DC Roche continued: “Coulson was under no illusion about her age and the fact she was not old enough to consent to sexual activity, but he invited her to his house for that purpose anyway.

“His actions were predatory and I am really pleased to see him sent to prison as a result.

“I sincerely hope that this sentence helps give her closure and enables her to rebuild her life knowing that because of her courage and strength a dangerous predator is now behind bars.

“I hope this case shows the seriousness with which Northamptonshire Police take these kinds of cases and we will continue working hard to achieve similar results.”

Northamptonshire Police takes reports of sexual abuse very seriously and will always treat reports of this nature with the confidentiality and sensitivity they deserve.

We will believe you.

If you have been a victim of sexual abuse, whether recent or non-recent, please come forward by calling 101 clicking Northamptonshire Police online reporting tool at www.northants.police.uk.

If you have been a victim of a sexual offence but are not yet ready to speak to the police, please visit www.voicenorthants.org or call Voice on 0300 303 1965.

Voice is a support service for anyone living in Northamptonshire, regardless of when, where or how crime happened to you. Services are free, confidential and you don’t have to have reported anything to the police.