A “one-off” sexual adventure with a minor landed a 19-year-old man in the dock after he gave in to her repeated advances, a court heard on Saturday.

Defense lawyer Marouska Debono told the court that the 14-year-old girl had instigated the sexual encounter, knowing full well what trouble it would get her client in.

“He fell for the temptation. He’s human. Now he could end up in jail for five years,” the lawyer said.

Inspector Joseph Busuttil confirmed that it was the girl who used to constantly message the accused.

The prosecution said the pair had met once for a sexual encounter.

The girl’s father had subsequently filed a report, meaning the police were duty-bound to charge the man, Inspector Busuttil continued.

He said recent revisions to the law meant the 19-year-old could be jailed for a minimum of five years if found guilty.

Inspector Busuttil said each case had to be weighed on its own merit, as a paedophile abusing a minor was one thing, whereas in this case the people involved were of a similar age.

“It was a one-off adventure”, the prosecution said.

Magistrate Audrey Demicoli granted the man bail on the understanding that he did not approach the girl.

The court issued a protection order, and banned publication of the names of those involved.