A 20-year-old Leeds man who admitted to sexually assaulting a "vulnerable" young girl has avoided jail.
Mahdi Alishieshi, of Brudenell Mount, Hyde Park, was 17 years old at the time of the offences involving the child, who was then aged 11 or 12.
Concerns were raised to the police following entries in her diary about the offences that occurred in Manchester and she told officers she had been sexually assaulted by Alishieshi.
Alishieshi was interviewed by police and admitted kissing her, touching her buttocks over clothing and touching her breasts under clothing.
Manchester Evening News reports, he was asked by police if he became sexually aroused, he said: "Yeah, I think one or two times."
Alishieshi claimed he had 'accidentally' touched her under clothing.
"I wouldn't be looking when I was touching her," he said.
But a judge at Manchester Crown Court told him: "This wasn't accidental touching, this was a sexually motivated incident.
"You need to look deep within yourself and acknowledge that and move on from there.
"She was and is a particularly vulnerable young person, in that she is somewhat disturbed and troubled."
Recorder Abigail Hudson told him: "I don't doubt for a moment you were confused by your feelings.
"You were 17, you were very nearly an adult.
"You should have known better."
The judge said the victim's ordeal has 'exacerbated her troubles'.
She told Alishieshi: "To your credit, you made frank admissions in interview.
"I have no doubt you are making significant progress in getting your life back on track."
Alishieshi, a university student, has 'strong academic capabilities' and a 'prospect of a bright and successful future'," she said.
"You have demonstrated significant remorse," the judge told him.
Defending, Lewis Kerr said Alishieshi has suffered from mental health problems which he has been seeking help.
Alishieshi was sentenced to a three-year community order, to include a sexual offenders treatment program, as well as 45 rehabilitation activity requirement days, and 100 hours unpaid work.
The judge said the public would be 'better served' by a longer community order, with the limit for suspended sentences being two years.
He must also sign the sex offender's register for five years.
Alishieshi pleaded guilty to three counts of sexually assaulting a girl under the age of 13.
