A MAN who sexually assaulted a 12-year-old girl he met on Facebook has been jailed.

A MAN who sexually assaulted a 12-year-old girl he met on Facebook has been jailed.

Fruit factory worker Adam Barnett, 29, of Orchard Road, St Neots, met the victim online, then began sending her explicit text messages.

He then turned up outside a swimming pool in the town to meet the girl.

Barnett sexually assaulted her in his car twice between December 15, 2009 and January 29 this year.

He was caught after the victim told her parents and a teacher that she thought she might be pregnant.

He pleaded guilty to two serious sexual assaults and one of sexual assault at Peterborough Crown Court. He was jailed for three-and-a-half years.

Detective Constable Julia Boon, who led the investigation, said: “Adam Barnett preyed on a young vulnerable female. He persisted in texting and phoning her, then encouraged a sexual relationship.

“We’re pleased he chose to plead guilty in this case and, as a result, has prevented his young victim from having to go through any further trauma.

“I hope this case highlights how important it is for parents and guardians to monitor their child’s internet usage and to make them aware of the dangers of making ‘friends’ with strangers online.”