David Jenkins - Repeat Sex Offender

A child-sex offender who failed to notify the authorities of his address has admitted trying to rape a Chester-le-Street woman.

David Jenkins, who was convicted of a serious sexual offence against a child in 2001, travelled to Spain where he obtained work.

Durham Crown Court heard that after returning he attempted to rape a woman in Chester-le-Street last year.

Tony Davis, defending, said Jenkins was dealt with at Portsmouth Crown Court for the offence against the child and, as part of that sentence, was put on the Sex Offenders' Register.

"He was sleeping rough for part of the time he is alleged to have failed to notify his address," a
dded Mr Davis. "Where he was living is not entirely clear."

Jenkins, 29, of no fixed abode, admitted attempted rape but denied another sexual assault charge when he appeared in court on May 29.

He also denied failing to notify a change of address in breach of a requirement to register as a sex offender.

Prosecutor Mark Giuliani said the pleas were acceptable.

He added: "As regards failing to notify a change of address, the Crown does not think it is in the public interest to have a trial on that charge.

"It is understood Jenkins was in touch with the police on other matters at the time and will claim they knew of his whereabouts.

"The guilty plea to attempted rape means he will be going to prison for some time and will now be on the Sex Offenders' Register for life."

Judge Richard Lowden ordered pre-sentence reports and remanded Jenkins in custody until January 25.