Brett Peterson, a care worker, was sentenced to five years and eight months in jail after admitting to engaging in a sexual relationship with a vulnerable woman who had a mental disorder. Peterson, 55, pleaded guilty to seven counts of sexual activity with the victim between January 2019 and September 2020 while he was employed by the Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in the Stamford area. During sentencing at Lincoln Crown Court, Judge Simon Hirst emphasized that Peterson was aware that such relationships were not only prohibited but also constituted a criminal offense.
Prosecutor Jon Dee revealed that the victim, who suffered from multiple mental health issues and attended regular hospital appointments, relied heavily on Peterson as a connection to the outside world. Peterson resigned from his position after his wife discovered the illicit relationship, leading to his arrest in 2023.
Peterson’s defense attorney, Sarah Lindop, acknowledged that his actions were inappropriate and stated that his guilty pleas spared the victim from the ordeal of a trial. Judge Hirst emphasized the profound vulnerability of the victim and condemned the irreparable harm caused by Peterson’s actions.
In addition to the initial charges, Peterson admitted to two more counts of inciting or causing sexual activity with a person with a mental disorder. A restraining order prohibits any contact between Peterson and the victim, and he is required to register as a sex offender for life.
