27/07/2012

Teen Who Attacked 10-Year-Old Girl May 'Never Be Released'

A teenager who throttled, punched and kicked a 10-year-old Teesside girl might never be released back into the community, a judge has said.

16-year-old Conner Hodgson attacked the girl in Stockton, Teeside. The court heard that Hodgson had alcohol and drug problems and had been smoking cannabis the day of the attack.

Judge Peter Fox sentenced Hodgson to an indeterminate term in custody, with a minimum tariff of five years.

The teenager had earlier admitted wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Judge Fox said Hodgson, who is in local authority care, would not be released while he posed a threat to the community.

The court was told Hodgson repeatedly beat the 10-year-old girl around the head so viciously he could have killed her.

He said he had no idea why he attacked the youngster and could not even remember carrying out the assault.

His victim passed out and was found in Maritime Way covered in blood after a major police search.

The girl, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been left with serious physical and psychological problems, including post-traumatic stress disorder, the court heard.

Judge Fox told Hodgson he represents such a "significant risk" to the public, he could not say if he would ever be released from custody.

(H)


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