TATTOOIST SUBJECTED CLIENTS TO TRAUMATIC SEXUAL ABUSE DURING SESSIONS
A man who sexually assaulted more than half a dozen female clients has received a prison sentence.Ashley Lilleyman was found to have assaulted each of his victims multiple times during tattoo sessions.
The offences involved several women, with eight of them cooperating with police investigations.
The assaults took place over a period from January 2022 to July 2024, with Lilleyman initially performing tattoo work normally before turning his attention to assaulting his clients.
These incidents occurred either at his shop in Mansfield or at his home studio.
One woman, who came in for a stomach tattoo, decided to change her design midway through the session after Lilleyman’s inappropriate behaviour, opting instead for the tattoo on her arm to avoid further advances.
The full extent of Lilleyman’s misconduct surfaced after one victim confided in a family member, who subsequently informed authorities.
The tattoo shop where he was employed responded swiftly by dismissing him.
An investigation uncovered additional victims when seven more women came forward over a span of two and a half years, sharing their experiences with police.
Their testimonies, along with evidence from Lilleyman’s former employer, contributed to building a strong case.
Lilleyman pleaded guilty to 14 counts of sexual assault and was sentenced on August 22 at Nottingham Crown Court to six years and four months in prison.
He will serve an extra three years on extended licence due to being classified as a dangerous offender.
He is also under a sexual harm prevention order and a restraining order for ten years, which prevent him from contacting any of the victims.
Detective Constable Mary Taylor from Nottinghamshire Police praised the victims for their bravery, saying, “Thanks to their courage and the support from his former workplace, we exposed Lilleyman’s crimes.
He used his position to commit these assaults when his clients were vulnerable, solely for sexual gratification.
Up to eight women have come forward, and they can find some reassurance in knowing justice has been achieved.” She emphasized, “We hope this case encourages other survivors of sexual abuse to come forward, as we are committed to listening and ensuring perpetrators face the consequences of their actions.”
