A magistrate has described the conduct of a former Highlands business owner-operator as "degrading, demeaning and insulting".
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Moss Vale resident Darren Craig George, 53, received a 21-month sentence at Campbelltown Local Court on Wednesday, to be served as an intensive corrective order.
He previously co-owned the now-closed business CeeJayz Eatz and Chatz, formerly located at 74 Hoddle Street, Robertson.
The court was told Mr George met with a victim to talk about whether she'd become an employee.
During the meeting Mr George put a $100 note in the woman's cleavage.
Mr George's defence representative Derek Shridhar argued his client wanted the woman to stay so "he had a drinking buddy" and the act of putting the money down her top was not sexually gratuitous.
In other incidents heard by the court, Mr George took hold of one employee by the back of the neck, and in another he asked a person to hit his muscles, shoulder and buttocks.
Mr Shridhar also referenced an incident where one of the victims was "knuckled in the buttocks".
When speaking about the case in general, Mr Shridhar noted Mr George's mental health as well as the death of his client's mother and a previous family breakdown.
Magistrate Shane McAnulty took into account a period of 101 days when Mr George was previously refused bail, and reduced his sentence accordingly.
Before he handed down the verdict, Magistrate McAnulty described the offences in court.
"When you're looking at the offences, they're degrading, demeaning and insulting for the position Mr George found himself in, [with] three staff members and the fourth who was a little older," he said.
"I also take into account the accused has suffered emotional and mental difficulties. While that explains some of the behaviour, it certainly should not excuse it or be used as an excuse. Criminal behaviour remains criminal behaviour."
The intensive corrective order is subject to good behaviour, the acceptance of supervision for as long as necessary and the completion of 250 hours of community service.
Mr George must also undergo treatment and/or rehab as necessary.