11/08/2008

Footballer Faces Jail Over Blackmail Charge

A former Manchester City youth teamgoalkeeper is facing jail over blackmailing another player over sexual images.

Ashley Timms, 22, a former Manchester City trainee, demanded £15,000 from the player, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

Timms admitted blackmailing the player between March 1 and April 3 this year.

Judge Gilbart warned that the case "carries inevitably a prison sentence".

Manchester Crown Court heard that the blackmail victim received "a number of threats" over the sexual images.

Prosecuting, David Friesner, said: "There was a long protracted series of text messages that culminated in the offence."

Timms defence, Rob Kearney said: "He is a young man of hitherto good character. He's a young man who has led a blameless life."

The player, from Middleton, Greater Manchester, has been bailed until 5 September for sentencing.

He played with Manchester City's under-19 side and played stints at Shrewsbury Town and Accrington Stanley as well as a number of non-league clubs.

Timms joined Cambridge City in January on non-contract terms but has since left.

The player is currently without a club.

(DS/JM)

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