Gateshead pervert offered to buy young girl Cabbage Patch Kids doll then sexually abused her

The victim had seen an advertising campaign for the popular 1980s toy and recalled how she wanted one. Daniel Kristiansen, who is now 80, told the girl he would try to get her one if she did what he wanted.

He then got her to touch him sexually, encouraging her by saying: "Come on, we're just being nice." Newcastle Crown Court heard Kristiansen, who sold snacks and fish at pubs in Gateshead, would also talk about his penis "almost like it was a pet".

In a victim impact statement read to the court, the victim said: "It's been extremely difficult for me to describe the extent of the damage caused. I do know the blame for this lies with him. He is the abuser and preyed upon my vulnerability for his own gain. I feel anger, resentment, frustration and suffer from depression and anxiety."

Kristiansen, of Wood Street, Dunston, Gateshead, was found guilty of indecent assault. He was jailed for three years and was given an indefinite restraining order. He must also sign the sex offenders register indefinitely.

Tony Cornberg, defending, said Kristiansen tried to commit suicide and has been remanded in custody for more than a year. Mr Cornberg added: "He just wants to get on with his life, he is looking forward to the freedom of being able to choose what to do. He is 80 years old and when he committed these offences he was in his 30s. Things have changed."