PAUL KEARSLAKE FROM SOUTHSEA SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN PORTSMOUTH
A man from Southsea, Hampshire, has been sentenced to prison after admitting to committing a sexual assault in the early hours of a morning.Paul Kevin Leslie Kearslake, aged 36 and residing on Warwick Crescent in Southsea, was given a 28-month jail term at Portsmouth Crown Court.
The incident occurred on Monday, January 8, when a 37-year-old woman was approached by an unknown man on Albert Road in Southsea, shortly before 2:30 am.
According to Hampshire Police, Kearslake made inappropriate and sexualized comments towards her, then proceeded to touch her in a sexual manner over her clothing.
The woman responded by screaming, which caused Kearslake to flee the scene.
Kearslake admitted to both charges during a hearing at Portsmouth Magistrates Court on Wednesday, January 10.
His sentencing took place later at Portsmouth Crown Court on Friday, May 3.
The court's decision reflects the gravity of his actions and the impact on the victim.
Detective Inspector Claire Ratcliffe expressed her satisfaction with the case's resolution, stating, “I’m pleased that Kearslake admitted these offences without the need for a trial.
The sentence imposed underlines the seriousness of his offending.
This was a frightening experience for the victim, and I hope such a swift resolution to the investigation and court process will provide her some reassurance.” She also emphasized the ongoing efforts of local police to combat violence against women and girls in Portsmouth.
Inspector Ratcliffe highlighted the importance of community safety initiatives, including Operation Rigging patrols, which involve officers patrolling the city center during peak times to identify and prevent predatory or concerning behavior towards women.
Finally, she urged victims of sexual offences to come forward and report their experiences, assuring them that their reports will be taken seriously and that support will be provided.
“If you have been the victim of a sexual offence, please report it to us – you will be listened to and you will be taken seriously.
We will also work to get you the support that you need,” she said.
