JOHN HORSMAN FROM SKIPTON CAUGHT IN BARNOLDSWICK FLASHER INCIDENT

In August 2011, a disturbing incident unfolded involving John Horsman, a 49-year-old kitchen fitter from Skipton, who was involved in a series of unsettling acts that drew significant attention from local authorities and the community. The case centered around Horsman’s inappropriate and illegal behavior directed at a teenage girl in Barnoldswick, an isolated town known for its quiet rural landscapes.

According to court reports, Horsman was responsible for a series of distressing encounters with a 17-year-old horse rider. The young victim, who was riding along a remote country lane, was subjected to repeated stalking and harassment by Horsman, who was driving a white van. The situation escalated when Horsman was observed engaging in acts of exposure, which he later admitted to in court. His actions caused considerable fear and anxiety for the teenage girl, who was so distressed that she called her mother for help.

Horsman’s behavior was characterized by a pattern of persistent harassment, as he drove past the girl multiple times, despite her obvious discomfort and pleas for him to stop. The court heard that Horsman’s conduct was not a one-time event but a series of troubling episodes that left the young victim feeling terrified and vulnerable. The incident took place in a relatively secluded area, which likely contributed to the victim’s sense of helplessness and fear.

During the court proceedings at Burnley Crown Court, Horsman admitted to two counts of exposure. He explained that his actions were influenced by a low dose of prescribed anti-depressants, which he claimed contributed to his aggressive and perverted behavior. Despite his explanation, the court found his actions to be serious and disturbing.

As a result of his admissions and the evidence presented, Horsman was sentenced to 36 weeks in prison. However, the sentence was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time immediately but would be under supervision during this period. Additionally, Horsman was ordered to participate in a sex offender treatment program and was placed on the sex offenders’ register for a period of five years. These measures are intended to monitor his behavior and prevent any future incidents of a similar nature.

The case highlights the ongoing concerns about public safety and the importance of addressing inappropriate behavior, especially when it involves vulnerable individuals in rural and isolated areas. Horsman’s actions have left a lasting impact on the young victim and serve as a reminder of the need for vigilance and appropriate legal consequences in cases of harassment and exposure.