A FORMER police community support officer is facing jail after being found guilty of eight sex offences involving a girl.

Lawrence Dunn, 48, of Axbridge Road, Burnham, was convicted of six counts of sexual activity with a girl under 16, and another two counts of attempted sexual activity with a girl under 16.

Dunn was a PCSO when the offences took place but resigned his position when a police investigation into his conduct began.

He was cleared of one further count of attempted sexual activity with a child under 16.

The verdicts followed a four-day trial at Taunton Crown Court this week.

In a statement, Avon and Somerset Police said: “The court heard compelling evidence at the trial which highlighted the gross abuse of his position of trust.

“Dunn had every opportunity to plead guilty following this investigation but instead put his victim through the trauma of a trial.”

It added: “We are disappointed with the actions of a man who was in a position of trust in our communities. We hope that this case sends out a stern message that any inappropriate conduct from officers within Avon and Somerset will be fully investigated.”

Dunn will be sentenced at a later date.