A LONG-SERVING prison officer is now spending time behind bars himself, for grooming and sexually touching an underage girl.

Simon Lefevre was jailed for two years and eight months after admitting 11 offences.

Durham Crown Court heard that the girl broke down in tears and informed her mother what had been taking place.

But, at about the same time, LeFevre confessed to his son, a trainee police officer, after sending him a message saying: “I’ve messed it up for you”.

Robin Turton, prosecuting, said LeFevre’s son told his father he would have to report it to his supervision at work.

The girl was spoken to and she disclosed that it began with the defendant sending her a message telling her she looked “hot in that dress” when she was going to a party.

Things moved from there with LeFevre advancing to massaging the girl and sexually touching her.

Mr Turton said one incident involved LeFevre throwing Polo mints down her top, so he could attempt to retrieve them, and he told her of his wish to take things further, adding that he believed she would enjoy it.

LeFevre was arrested and made no comment to police questions.

The 61-year-old, of New Row, Oakenshaw, near Willington, denied 12 charges of sexual activity with a child, at a plea hearing in February this year, and a trial date was set for next month.

But, after subsequent discussions with his lawyers, the Crown was informed of a planned change of plea, and, at a further hearing, last month, he admitted 11 of the charges.

The case was adjourned for preparation of pre-sentence and psychiatric reports on LeFevre.

David Callan, mitigating, said the defendant was not only of previous good character, but, “positive good character”, as he has been a public servant since 1985, with special responsibilities at prison to look after vulnerable inmates.

“Prison is going to be particularly difficult for this man, given the public service he has given.”

Passing sentence, the judge told LeFevre he “took advantage” of the girl.

LeFevre was made subject of registration as a sex offender indefinitely and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, “until further order”.