THE JURY in the trial of a man accused of a sex attack on a schoolgirl were not able to reach a verdict.

Jason Lineker, 33, denied the incident in Brighton.

A girl, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, had reported her concerns to her primary school staff following a safeguarding assembly.

Lineker, formerly of Mouslecoomb Way, Brighton, was on trial at Brighton Crown Court where he was accused of assault by penetration of a child under the age of 13.

After four days of evidence, including from witnesses and the girl herself, the jury was unable to reach a verdict to either convict or acquit the defendant.

The Crown Prosecution Service has seven days to review whether to pursue a retrial.