KEVIN EVANS HEREFORD MAN INDICTED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT NEAR LEDBURY ROAD

In November 2000, a serious incident unfolded involving Kevin Evans, a resident of Hereford, which culminated in his conviction for indecent assault on a teenage girl. The assault occurred after Evans, feeling humiliated by the girl’s reaction to his unwelcome advances, resorted to physical aggression in a public area.

Kevin Thomas Evans, aged 26 and living on St James Road in Hereford, was found guilty of dragging a 15-year-old girl up a driveway and attempting to assault her. The incident took place near Ledbury Road, close to the Texaco garage, on the night of August 31. Evans, who works as a farm-worker in Tillington, approached the two young girls and asked them to accompany him to his flat for sex. The girls declined his invitation and continued walking away, but Evans did not let them go without confrontation.

According to court reports, Evans grabbed one of the girls and tried to kiss her on the cheek. He then led her up a dark driveway, during which he lifted her sweatshirt, vest top, and bra around her neck. There were also attempts to pull down her trousers, which she resisted fiercely. The girl, whose identity is protected by law, fought back by kneeing Evans in the groin, managing to fend off his advances.

It was the witness account of the girl’s friend, who saw the assault and later recognized Evans in the street, that led to his arrest. The friend followed Evans back to his residence and promptly contacted the police, providing crucial evidence that resulted in his apprehension.

When police arrived at Evans’ home several weeks later, he immediately acknowledged the incident, stating, “I know what it’s about. It was in Ledbury Road. I would like to say sorry to the girl.” During questioning, Evans explained that his actions stemmed from feeling hurt after a breakup and that he reacted poorly when he saw the girls laughing at him. His defense attorney, Anthony Weston, argued that Evans was emotionally vulnerable and that the incident was more about his emotional state than sexual intent. Weston emphasized that Evans was deeply remorseful, describing him as a man who struggles with life's challenges.

The court was told that Evans does not view his actions lightly, and his remorse was evident. Magistrates, however, expressed that his behavior was serious enough to warrant a custodial sentence but ultimately decided that treatment and supervision would be more appropriate to protect the public. Evans was sentenced to three years’ probation, placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register, and ordered to pay £1,000 in compensation to the victim. The court’s decision reflected a balance between punishment and rehabilitation, aiming to prevent future harm while addressing the underlying issues that led to the assault.