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former Surrey real estate agent, Paul Atanassov, is facing sentencing for sex crimes involving two underage girls. He pleaded guilty to sexual interference and making child pornography.
Prosecutors argue that Atanassov should spend eight years in prison for abusing the 12-year-old girl with drugs and alcohol, and engaging in unprotected sex with her. He also made video recordings of one of his victims, who was 14 at the time. The court heard how Atanassov met girls on social media apps and used various drugs before committing the offences.
The Crown stated that Atanassov minimized his behavior, suggesting his victims were deceitful about their age. However, a doctor's report revealed that he had sought out one of his victims when she was just 12 years old, making her age "readily obvious."
Atanassov's lawyer argued for a three-year sentence, citing the defendant's guilty plea and loss of employment as mitigating factors. He also mentioned Atanassov's struggles with drug addiction and being attacked while in custody.
The court heard that one video involving the youngest victim was circulated on social media, further victimizing her. Prosecutors stated that the 12-year-old victim's life has taken a downward spiral since the abuse. The judge has reserved her decision for a later date.
