A man has appeared in court accused of sexual communications with a teenager including asking to see her in underwear. 

Ryan Gibson, 36, is said to have referred to himself as “Mr Big D” during chat with the girl aged under 16 aimed at obtaining sexual gratification. 

Norwich Magistrates’ Court heard the alleged messaging which involved discussion about underwear and what she was wearing had occurred between October 2022 and January 2023. 

Gibson, from Harleston, pleaded not guilty to a single charge of engaging in sexual communication with a child.

The charge carries a maximum sentence of up to 18 months in prison. 

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Deputy District Judge Pankhania accepted jurisdiction, saying magistrates had enough powers to hear the case.

However, Gibson elected for his trial to be heard before a jury at Norwich Crown Court with a preliminary hearing on September 13. 

He was granted bail with conditions not to contact his alleged victim or another woman linked to the case who is likely to be a prosecution witness in his trial.