Teen who shot girl, 9, in the face with BB gun escapes jail

The 16-year-old, who cannot be named, terrified the youngster in woods so he could take money and a bike to give to a friend as a birthday present, Teesside Crown Court heard.

What started as a childish prank last November near Richmond, North Yorkshire, ended with the victim sobbing and hysterical when she was found by a dog walker.

The teenager admitted possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and common assault at a hearing last month and was sentenced today.

Victoria Lamballe, prosecuting, said the defendant went into the woods with the girl, then suddenly “threw her to the ground, pinned her down by straddling her before producing a BB gun”.

She said: “He put it against her head and told her not to scream or he would shoot.

“She asked why he was doing this to her.”

The defendant told her he wanted her bike and money to give them to a female friend.

Miss Lamballe said: “He got to his feet, still pointing his BB gun at her. She then described scrambling to her feet and grabbing her bag.

“As she does, the defendant fires a pellet at her and that strikes her face, causing pain and leaving a red mark.”

She shouted for help and was found by a dog walker who took her to her parents.

Judge Peter Armstrong said the offence warranted a sentence of 12 months detention, but the defendant has already served five months in Hassockfield Secure Training Centre, County Durham, where he has done well.

“You have made good progress while on remand and I see no reason why that should not continue in the community.”

He must serve a six month rehabilitation order, abide by a three month curfew and keep away from the victim for 12 months.

“If you comply with that regime then that will be an end of this matter,” the judge said.

Rod Hunt, defending, said: “The lines between pranks and crimes are often blurred when the courts come to deal with young people. It is quite clear by the fear engendered in this young girl, the line was crossed.”

He said the teen has responded well to discipline at the secure training centre and now hopes to join the Army.

The teenager already has eight convictions for 11 offences, including one for battery in 2006 and in July 2008 a charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm after he beat an eight-year-old with sticks.