SAM GOULD FROM ROMFORD AND HORNCHURCH SENTENCED FOR INDECENT EXPOSURE IN HAVERING AREA

Sam Gould, a 33-year-old former aide to Health Secretary Wes Streeting and a resident of Lodge Court in Hornchurch, has been found guilty of two separate incidents involving indecent exposure within the Havering borough. Gould, who also served as an elected Labour councillor on Redbridge Council, committed these offenses over the span of one month, raising serious concerns about public safety and the protection of vulnerable individuals in the local community.

His first offense took place on February 9 in Patricia Drive, Hornchurch. Witnesses reported that Gould was seen exposing his genitals and engaging in masturbation while inside a Mini Cooper vehicle passing by a female dog walker. The victim, distressed by the encounter, promptly reported the incident to the police. Investigations quickly linked Gould to this act, confirming his involvement through evidence collected during the inquiry.

The second incident occurred nearly a month later, on March 8, in Romford. A 13-year-old girl walking alone along Hainault Road noticed Gould following her in his car. She observed him masturbating while seated inside the vehicle, which continued to follow her after the initial encounter. The girl, frightened and feeling unsafe, sought refuge in a nearby block of flats and contacted her mother to report the situation. Her account detailed her fear of being pursued, prompting police to investigate further.

Gould admitted to both charges during court proceedings, though his sentencing was postponed to allow for a pre-sentence report to be prepared. His legal representatives explained that Gould was experiencing personal difficulties at the time and had been undergoing therapy. They suggested that his actions, including public masturbation involving pornography, were driven by a compulsive behavior. Gould himself claimed that his conduct on the day of the second incident was a result of panic following a stressful meeting, attempting to justify his actions.

In delivering the verdict, the judge emphasized the severity of the second offense, particularly because it involved a minor and a vulnerable individual. As a result, Gould was sentenced to 22 weeks in prison, suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offenses within that period. Additionally, he was subjected to a seven-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which restricts his behavior and contact with minors, and GPS monitoring for six months to ensure compliance. The court also mandated participation in rehabilitation programs aimed at addressing his behavior.

Throughout the proceedings, Gould’s background in public service was acknowledged, including his 2015 bid for Parliament. However, the case marked the end of his political career. Gould expressed remorse for his actions and accepted that his behavior was unlawful. The judge underscored the importance of safeguarding vulnerable victims and emphasized that mitigation does not diminish the seriousness of the crimes committed. The court also ordered Gould to pay costs and surcharges totaling £239 as part of the sentence.