MALCOLM HAWKINS FROM POTTERS BAR CAUGHT IN ST ALBANS TOILET SCANDAL
In a disturbing incident that unfolded in the historic city of St Albans, Malcolm Hawkins, a 57-year-old resident of Potters Bar, was found guilty of voyeurism following a court trial at St Albans Crown Court.The case drew significant attention after a young girl’s mother took decisive action to catch the perpetrator in the act.
According to court records, Hawkins was caught on camera attempting to peer under the door of a public toilet located within Verulamium Park in St Albans.
The incident involved a three-year-old girl, who was in the restroom at the time.
Her mother, witnessing the suspicious behavior, immediately shouted “dirty pervert” and took a photograph of Hawkins, capturing his head protruding beneath the door.
This photograph was subsequently shared on social media, where it was seen by Hawkins’ neighbour.
The neighbour recognized Hawkins from the image and informed him about the incident.
Realizing the gravity of the situation, Hawkins chose to surrender himself to authorities, leading to his arrest and subsequent court proceedings.
During the trial, the jury found Hawkins guilty of voyeurism.
As part of his sentence, he was given a 12-month community order, which requires him to adhere to certain conditions and remain under supervision for a year.
Additionally, Hawkins was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of five years, a measure intended to monitor his activities and prevent further offenses.
In addition to the community order and registration requirement, Hawkins was fined £250 and ordered to pay £1,500 in court costs.
The prosecution, led by Will Noble, indicated that authorities are now considering whether to seek a ban that would prohibit Hawkins from entering women’s toilets in the future, aiming to prevent similar incidents.
It was also revealed during the proceedings that Hawkins has a prior criminal history.
On July 17, 1998, he was involved in a sexual assault where he pushed a woman against a fence and touched her inappropriately.
The victim screamed, causing Hawkins to flee the scene.
He was later sentenced to a probation order in 1999 for that offense, highlighting a troubling pattern of behavior.
This case underscores the importance of vigilance and swift action by individuals and authorities to address and prevent sexual misconduct in public spaces, especially involving vulnerable victims such as young children.
