Man who had sexual activity with schoolgirl jailed after his partner reported him
A man who had sexual activity with a schoolgirl he met on Snapchat has been jailed for six years after his partner reported him to the police.
Lewis Herman chatted with the teen over the social media site, sent and requested illicit images then drove to meet her in his car.
Newcastle Crown Court heard they had sexual activity in the vehicle.
Herman's subsequent partner then found out what had gone on and reported him.
The court heard the illegal encounters left the child victim "completely overwhelmed".
She said in an impact statement she struggles to sleep, has nightmares and added: "I'm constantly thinking and reliving what happened."
The girl said she blames herself for what happened even though she understands it was not her fault.
Herman, 21, of Westmorland Road, Newcastle, was convicted of offences of sexual communication with a child, causing a child to watch a sexual act, sexual activity with a child and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, which he denied.
He pleaded guilty to inciting the sending of child expliotation images.
Recorder Christopher Rose said: "A subsequent partner of yours realised what had occurred and reported the matter to the police.
"You were arrested and interviewed a but declined to answer any questions."
Herman must now register as a sex offender for life.
He has an unrelated conviction for having child abuse images, featuring victims aged between four and six.
Victoria Lambelle, defending, said Herman continues to deny the offences but is willing to engage with any help offered to him.