[Gayle]

Before I start I must make it clear that I think any 44 yr old man that wants to have sex with a 14 year old girl is a bit odd and vice versa. However, just a few things strike me with this case - the fact that they were 'swapping texts' does indicate that there may possibly have been a bit of encouragement or leading on from the girl too. Not a real excuse but is it possible that a widower may have been feeling vulnerable and felt genuine love for the young girl?

Pervert is such an extreme word when there's no evidence that he repeatedly preys on young girls.

As the courts have decided that the man is in the wrong then clearly he was and should therefore be punished. However, if there's the slightest bit of doubt isn't he just misguided and stupid and not exactly a pervert!