IGOR LAGADIN SHOCKS LONDON WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT AT EARL’S COURT STATION

A man identified as Igor Lagadin has been formally sentenced after being found guilty of a sexual assault that took place at a London Underground station. The incident, which has drawn significant attention, occurred in the early hours of March 24 of the previous year, at Earl’s Court station, a busy hub on the District line.

According to prosecutor Edmund Blackman, Lagadin, aged 53 and residing on Senior Street in Paddington, was involved in the assault shortly after disembarking from a District line train. As the woman he targeted was ascending the stairs, he inappropriately groped her bottom. The woman, who appeared to be quite young—possibly close in age to his daughter—was taken aback by the unsolicited contact.

Following the incident, the woman confronted Lagadin, who responded with an apology, saying, “I’m sorry.” Despite his words, the authorities quickly identified him and made an arrest. The victim, traumatized by the event, revealed that she had avoided train stations for several weeks afterward, driven by fear of encountering further harassment or similar incidents.

Lagadin, who works professionally as a porter, initially claimed that the touching was accidental. However, CCTV footage reviewed by prosecutor Judge Freya Newbury painted a different picture, clearly showing that the act was deliberate and intentional.

During the court proceedings, Judge Newbury described the assault as “objectifying, weird, and totally inappropriate,” emphasizing the seriousness of such behavior. She also highlighted the importance of empathy, noting that Lagadin might have a mother, sister, or daughter, and urged him to reflect on the impact of his actions.

In sentencing, Lagadin received a one-year community order, which includes unpaid work. Additionally, he is required to register as a sex offender for a period of five years, marking a significant legal consequence for his misconduct. The case underscores the ongoing efforts to address and curb sexual harassment in public spaces across London.