MICHAEL SHARP SENT TO PRISON AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULT NEAR DURHAM'S TESCO CAR PARK

A man identified as Michael Sharp has been sentenced to a period of detention following a disturbing incident of sexual assault that took place in Durham. The incident occurred at the family parking area of a Tesco supermarket located in Dragonville, Durham City, where Sharp was observed waiting in a predatory manner for a potential victim.

According to the court proceedings, prosecutor Mark Giuliani detailed how Sharp was seen loitering in the vicinity of the Tesco car park by a mother who had just arrived with her young daughter. The woman reportedly felt an immediate sense of unease upon noticing Sharp’s presence. Her discomfort grew when she returned to her vehicle approximately ninety minutes later and found Sharp still lingering nearby.

As she was in the process of loading her shopping into her car, Sharp approached her and asked for directions to Hartlepool. The woman initially believed that Sharp’s intentions were benign, but her relief was short-lived. Without warning, Sharp seized the opportunity to grab her and forcibly kiss her on the cheek, an act that left her visibly distressed.

The court heard that the woman managed to get into her vehicle, but her emotional state was so shaken that she was unable to drive away immediately. Prosecutor Giuliani emphasized her genuine fear, stating, “She was genuinely fearful Sharp was going to rape her.” The incident had a lasting impact on her, leading her to become increasingly anxious and cautious. She has reportedly taken steps to alter her appearance in an effort to avoid recognition by Sharp, indicating ongoing trauma and fear.

It was also revealed that Sharp was not a stranger to the store’s security personnel. He had previously been banned from Tesco’s premises due to theft, which underscores a pattern of problematic behavior. The court established that Sharp, aged 27 and residing on Front Street, Sherburn Road Estate, admitted to the sexual assault that occurred on September 7 of the previous year. Additionally, it was noted that he has a prior conviction for molesting a girl on a bus, further highlighting concerns about his conduct.

During the hearing, defense lawyer Tom Moran acknowledged troubling aspects of Sharp’s behavior but argued that the offense was at the lower end of the severity spectrum according to current legal guidelines. However, Judge Christopher Prince expressed serious concerns about Sharp’s potential danger to women. The judge stated, “Every instinct in my body suggests this is a very dangerous individual to women.”

Recognizing the need for appropriate intervention, Judge Prince indicated that a psychiatric assessment was necessary to determine suitable treatment options. The case was adjourned to allow for the preparation of this report, and Sharp was remanded into custody pending further evaluation.