A man has been jailed after slapping a nine-year-old girl walking to school with her sister in Bestwood, Nottingham. John Jolly, 38, struck the child as he cycled past them, leaving the young victim in tears.
Unprovoked Slap Shakes Quiet Nottingham Street
The shocking assault unfolded at around 8.30am on 7 March last year in Adderley Close. Jolly’s slap left a red mark on the girl’s face before he pedalled away, laughing. Despite her distress, the brave child carried on to school, where she and her sister reported the attack to teachers.
Speedy Police Hunt Leads to Arrest
- Officers launched an immediate search after being called to the scene.
- Jolly was caught just two hours later near a local shop on Beckhampton Road.
- He denied the attack at first but was charged after police gathered strong evidence.
Crucial Footage and Witnesses Nail Jolly
The girls heard a man shouting “open the door” just before the slap. Ring doorbell footage from nearby homes captured the voice and Essex accent, matching Jolly’s. His clothes in the footage matched what he wore at arrest.
Bus CCTV also placed Jolly cycling nearby at the time, aligning with witness descriptions. An official ID parade confirmed him as the attacker beyond doubt.
Judge Sends Jolly to Jail for 145 Days
At Nottingham Crown Court on 23 January, Jolly pleaded guilty to common assault. He was sentenced to 145 days behind bars for the reckless attack on a child going to school.
This grim case sends a powerful message: attacking kids will not be tolerated.
