PERTH SEX OFFENDER ORDERED TO PAY VICTIM AFTER ASSAULT AT HOMELESS SERVICE
A sex pest has been ordered to pay compensation to a woman he molested at a service helping Perth’s homeless people.Barry Thomas’ vile conduct against a member of staff was caught on camera.
CCTV showed the topless 48-year-old pestering his victim, then pursuing her through doors and down corridors.
Perth Sheriff Court heard how Thomas seized her by the head, repeatedly grabbed her, and pulled her towards him while attempting to kiss her on the mouth.
The clip showed the terrified woman trying to evade his unwanted advances.
Thomas was placed on the sex offenders register after pleading guilty to a sexual assault in 2022.
He was told he could have been jailed.
Sheriff William Wood described the behavior as appalling and highlighted the context of the woman working in difficult circumstances.
Thomas was sentenced to pay £500 compensation, carry out 180 hours of unpaid work, and abide by a 12-week home detention curfew from 7 am to 7 pm daily.
He also must stay on the sex offenders register for the duration of a two-year supervision order.
The sheriff emphasized that people should not fear being sexually assaulted at work.
Thomas expressed remorse, and his solicitor noted that addressing alcohol issues might reduce the likelihood of such offenses in the future.
