A man has avoided a prison sentence after he approached a 14-year-old schoolgirl at a bus stop in Charlton, called her pretty and brushed her hair out of her face. 

Junior Marlon Murray, aged 44, admitted that he assaulted the young girl but denied that his actions were sexually motivated. 

However, a jury at Woolwich Crown Court decided they were and Murray was found guilty of sexual assault. 

On Thursday (August 24) Murray appeared at the same court for sentencing. Prosecutor Simeon Wallis explained the facts of the case. 

Mr Wallis said: “On that day (July 15, 2022) the victim, who was then aged 14, was waiting for a bus. She was wearing her school uniform. She was approached by one of two men who had been looking at herm that was the defendant.” 

After he approached her Murray said something along the lines of: “Tell your mum or grandmother to look me up.” 

Murray then told the girl she was very pretty and asked what school she went to and how old she was, Mr Wallis told the court. 

He then reached out and brushed a lock of hair away from her face. 

“The victim told the defendant she was 14-years-old and didn’t talk to strangers. At this point he laughed and walked away,” Mr Wallis said. 

The incident was witnessed by police officer who were sitting nearby in an unmarked police car. Two of the officers rushed after Murray while a third officer went to the young girl. 

In a statement, the young girl described feeling vulnerable and concerned that Murray might try to find her. 

“She described having been in shock on the day of the incident, and being upset and emotional. She felt reluctant to go to school and was worried about seeing the defendant again,” Mr Wallis said. 

Murray denied sexually assaulting the girl but was found guilty on July 9 this year. 

He has been in custody in prison since June 20 having failed to attend court on a previous occasion. 

Judge Jonathan Mann KC said: “On occasion during the course of these proceedings you did show an attitude which showed a general contempt for proceedings. 

“I hope being in custody has brought home to you just how much of an effect this has had on her.” 

Judge Mann said: “Why you thought it would be appropriate to go up to her and speak to her only you know.” 

A pre-sentence report recommended a two-year community order including a requirement to complete the Horizon Programme, a course designed for medium risk sex offenders. 

Judge Mann said: “I want to make it clear, that is no soft option. It’s a very tough option.” 

The judge stuck by this recommendation, giving Murray a community order and warning him that if he does not take the order seriously he will find himself back in court.