James Howes sentenced for Facebook sex messages to girl, 11
A man from Cumbria who sent an 11-year-old girl Facebook messages inciting her to have sex with him has been given a three-year community order.
James Howes, 29, from Albert Street in Longtown, sent the girl messages in July saying he was "lonely" and "wanted some female company".
Howes was arrested after his girlfriend saw the messages and informed police.
He was sentenced at Carlisle Crown Court and ordered to sign the sex offenders register for five years.
Judge Barbara Forrester said it was "clear" what his intentions were and said the pair had not met because the girl was "very wary and sensible beyond her years".
Howes was given the community order with the condition he attends a rehabilitation programme for sex offenders and must also complete 100 hours unpaid community work.
He pleaded guilty to inciting the girl to engage in sexual activity.