Phillip Clive Butterworth, 70, of New Oceans Hotel, Blackpool, has been sentenced to 27 months in prison after pleading guilty to sexual assault. The sentence was delivered at Blackpool Crown Court on Monday, 7 December.
Butterworth targeted a young woman waiting at Blackpool North station on 9 January 2023. He approached her and asked if she was travelling alone. After she boarded the train, Butterworth sat beside her and made lewd sexual suggestions. During the entire 25-minute journey, he trapped her in her seat and touched her inappropriately.
The victim, who has learning difficulties, was left terrified and sent desperate text messages to her mother pleading for help and advice on what to do.
Detective Constable Chris Biggs condemned Butterworth’s behaviour, stating, “This was a vile and disgusting assault on a vulnerable young woman who was left terrified by Butterworth’s disgusting and inappropriate behaviour. The sentence handed down reflects the severity of his actions and will give the victim some comfort as she attempts to recover from this deeply traumatising incident.”
In addition to the prison sentence, Butterworth has been issued a restraining order preventing him from contacting the victim. He will also remain on the sex offenders register for 10 years.
Police have urged anyone concerned about their safety on the train network to report incidents or worries discreetly by texting 61016.
Originally published by UKNIP.
