An 18-year-old Ipswich man has been given a community order for a sexual offence against an underage girl.

Jack Purdy, of Spenser Road, Ipswich, initially denied engaging in sexual activity with a child under the age of 16 but later changed his plea to guilty.

He appeared at Ipswich Crown Court today, Friday, where he received a three-year community order, was told to complete 150 hours’ community service and a 60-day rehabilitation activity requirement.

The offence happened at an address in Ipswich on Monday, September 12, 2016, when Purdy was still 17 years old. His victim reported it to her family the next day, who told police, and Purdy was arrested on Wednesday, September 14.

Dc Rory Prior, who was in charge of the investigation, said: “Despite her youth, the victim has shown great courage and resilience by first reporting what happened and then seeing this case through. I would like to thank her family for the support they have provided to her and to the police.

“I am also pleased that Purdy decided to change his plea to guilty, which spared the need for his victim to attend court.

“We are dedicated to supporting victims of all ages and hope this case inspires confidence in others to report incidents of sexual assaults. Our objective is always to ensure that we get the justice they deserve.”