JASON FRANKLIN SMITH SHOCKS LEE-ON-THE-SOLENT WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT AT WYVERN PUB

A serious incident involving Jason Franklin Smith has come to light, revealing a disturbing case of sexual assault that took place at The Wyvern pub located on Common Barn Lane in Lee-on-the-Solent. The events unfolded on the evening of March 18, 2023, and have since led to legal proceedings and a conviction.

According to court records and police reports, Smith approached a teenage girl from behind within the premises of the pub. He then proceeded to wrap his arms around her torso, an act that was both invasive and alarming. During this encounter, he made inappropriate comments, expressing that he could not wait for her to turn 18, which added a disturbing context to his actions. The assault was not an isolated incident, as later that same evening, Smith was observed approaching her again from behind. Witnesses saw him rubbing his groin against her leg and buttocks, further escalating the severity of his misconduct.

Following these events, Smith was brought before Portsmouth Crown Court, where he faced charges of sexual assault. On April 22, 2023, the court found him guilty of two counts of sexual assault, confirming the seriousness of his actions. The legal proceedings culminated in a sentencing that took place on June 20, 2025, where Smith was sentenced to a year in jail. Additionally, he was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for a period of one year, a measure intended to monitor and restrict his activities post-release.

PC Lynsey Tallon, the officer responsible for the case, expressed her relief that Smith was sentenced to imprisonment. She emphasized that the court's order and the registration requirement would serve to reassure the victim and her family, providing a sense of justice and safety. The police department reiterated the importance of reporting sexual assaults and highlighted the availability of support services for victims of such abuse, underscoring their commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring that offenders are held accountable.