Thomas Lock 33

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Thomas Lock, 32, carried out the disgusting act with the aid of a cuddly toy in front of a child

A County Durham pervert who carried out a sex act involving a "cuddly toy" in front of a child has been put behind bars.

Thomas Lock carried out the disgusting act with the aid of a cuddly toy in front of a child. The 32-year-old told the child he was carrying out a "naughty game" and denied everything when arrested.

Lock was sentenced at Durham Crown Court on Thursday for engaging in a sexual act in the presence of a child. He continues to deny the offence but was found guilty by a jury after a trial.

Nick Adlington, prosecuting, said Lock - who appeared at the court via link from HMP Durham - carried out the sex act and involved a "cuddly toy" whilst in the presence of a child.

Mark Styles, defending, said Lock had no previous convictions and still does not accept the verdict of the jury. He said: "This is a difficult time for the defendant as he's never lost his liberty before. It came at a time in the wake of the death of his father, which had been anticipated. It was very difficult for him."

Mr Styles added: "He's got a good work record and was only unemployed for a limited period of time whilst awaiting trial in this matter. He's attempting to use his time in custody wisely and understands the significant impact this has had."

Sentencing Lock, Judge Jo Kidd said: "You were convicted by a jury and maintain you are not guilty. This was a deeply troubling incident, potentially foreshadowing further sexual offences, and was used in a manipulative way by using a toy to normalise your sexual activity. You called it a naughty game."

Lock, of High Etherley, near Bishop Auckland, was jailed for 30 months and will be on the sex offender's register indefinitely. An indefinite sexual harm prevention order was also imposed.