A man has been jailed for attempting to rape a teenager in Morecambe.
Florin Panainte attacked the girl at an address in the town in October last year.
She told family members what had happened and Panainte was arrested the same day in Morecambe.
Panainte, 38, of no fixed address, was found guilty by a jury after a trial at Preston Crown Court of attempted rape.
Returning to the dock for sentence, he was given a 14-year sentence comprising of nine years imprisonment and a five-year extended licence period.
He was made subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for 20 years and a 20-year restraining order.
Detective Constable Sam Ripley of the Child Protection Team at Lancaster CID, said: “This was an abhorrent sexual offence committed against a teenage girl.
“He tried to rape her and only the girl’s bravery stopped the attack.
“I welcome the prison sentence and extended licence which the judge imposed on Florin Panainte.
“If you have been the victim of a sexual assault, please report it. You will be supported and we will investigate thoroughly to bring the offender to justice.
“Violence against women and girls will not be tolerated by Lancashire Police.”


Lancaster and Morecambe pubs, cafes and restaurants back TV chef's campaign to cut VAT
Morecambe and Carnforth named top two trending UK staycation spots
Lancashire Police praise football fans for winning performance during World Cup
Community food workshops aim to empower people across the Lancaster district
£10 park show tickets part of Lancaster theatre's scheme to help with cost of living crisis
Work continues to restore Morecambe Winter Gardens as it remains on national 'at risk' register
Tributes paid to renowned horse and carriage driver and true local legend
Crews tackle outbuilding fire near Carnforth
Have your say on Lancaster’s Lancashire Police Museum
Calls for climate change film to be on prime time TV after Morecambe screening
Green initiatives save Morecambe Bay hospital trust £300,000 on energy bills
Police investigate reports of ‘dogs being used to threaten’ on Lancaster estate
Morecambe business owner lobbies Chancellor over rising costs on Downing Street visit
Rallying call for volunteers as work starts on memorial garden for little George
M6 closure after van lands on its roof near Carnforth
New charity for young people officially launches in Lancaster
Bench at Heysham beauty spot will provide ‘calm space’
Emergency services called to two-car collision in Lancaster
LISTEN: Long-serving Morecambe publican to retire after more than 45 years in trade

