BEN POUNTNEY OF SOLIHULL JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON TEENAGER ON TRAIN

In a disturbing incident that took place on a quiet train journey, Ben Pountney, a 30-year-old resident of Solihull, has been sentenced to prison after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a 17-year-old girl. The assault occurred on a train traveling from Stratford-Upon-Avon, where Pountney boarded the vehicle and chose to sit directly opposite the young victim.

According to court reports, Pountney, who resides in Swallows Meadow, Solihull, engaged in inappropriate behavior almost immediately after sitting down. He began by persistently questioning the girl about her shoes, including her shoe size, claiming he wanted to buy a similar pair for his niece. His behavior escalated as he leaned in closer to her, making her increasingly uncomfortable.

As the journey continued, Pountney's actions turned more invasive. He proceeded to sexually assault the teenager before disembarking from the train at his stop. The victim was left shaken by the incident, which was reported to authorities shortly thereafter.

Law enforcement officials launched an investigation into the assault, which included a media appeal to the public for assistance in identifying the suspect. Thanks to the cooperation of witnesses and the dissemination of information through media channels, Pountney was eventually identified and arrested. The police confirmed that he was detained following public help and media outreach.

During the trial held on December 5, 2022, Pountney pleaded guilty to one count of sexual assault. The court heard that the incident took place on Tuesday, October 13, 2020, when the victim was traveling on the train from Stratford-Upon-Avon. The judge sentenced Pountney on Thursday, January 26, to 20 months in prison. In addition to his incarceration, Pountney was handed a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and was ordered to register as a sex offender for the next decade.

Investigating officers described Pountney's actions as 'vile,' emphasizing the severity of his misconduct and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals from such predatory behavior. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to protect the public and ensure that offenders are held accountable for their crimes.