A Northampton childcare worker has been jailed after deliberately infecting a woman with gonorrhoea in a horrifying case of sexual abuse. Joshua Dale Brown, 28, admitted to sexual assault and causing grievous bodily harm during a hearing at Northampton Crown Court.
Brown, who worked with children, knowingly passed on the sexually transmitted infection (STI) to his victim after being diagnosed himself. The court heard how he continued to engage in unprotected sex despite being aware of his condition.
Details of the Offence
The disturbing case came to light when the victim tested positive for gonorrhoea and confronted Brown. Medical evidence confirmed he was the source of the infection. Prosecutors described his actions as "a gross breach of trust" that caused significant physical and psychological harm to the victim.
Sentencing and Reaction
Judge Rebecca Crane sentenced Brown to three years in prison, stating his behaviour was "predatory and calculated". She noted his position working with children made the offences particularly concerning.
Detective Constable Sarah Osborne, who led the investigation, praised the victim's courage in coming forward: "This was a complex and sensitive case. The victim has shown remarkable strength throughout this ordeal."
Public Health Concerns
The case has raised awareness about sexual health responsibilities. Public Health England advises anyone diagnosed with an STI to inform recent sexual partners and abstain from unprotected sex until treatment is complete.
Gonorrhoea cases in England have risen by 50% since 2018, with antibiotic-resistant strains becoming an increasing concern for health professionals.
