SIMON CLAPPISON FROM LINCOLN ADMITS SEXUAL ASSAULT ON 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL AT DOUBLETREE HILTON HOTEL
In a case that has spanned over a decade, Simon Clappison, a 32-year-old hotel worker from Lincoln, appeared before Lincoln Crown Court to face charges related to a sexual assault involving a young girl.The incident, which occurred in 2006, only came to light recently after a chance encounter between Clappison and his victim rekindled memories of the traumatic event.
According to court proceedings, Clappison was employed at the DoubleTree Hilton hotel in Lincoln at the time of the incident.
The court was informed that he was aware of the girl’s age—13—when he engaged in inappropriate physical contact with her.
The activity took place on a single occasion, following a prior meeting during which the two had exchanged internet messages and shared a kiss.
The prosecuting lawyer, Victoria Rose, explained that Clappison’s actions involved getting into bed with the girl and touching her in a sexual manner, an act he committed knowingly, fully aware of her age.
The court heard that the girl did not initially report her discomfort or disapproval of Clappison’s conduct.
It was only when they unexpectedly met again years later that she was overwhelmed by the resurfacing of painful memories, prompting her to come forward and report the incident.
The case was described by Judge Michael Heath as “unusual” and “exceptional,” highlighting the unusual circumstances surrounding the delayed reporting and the long passage of time since the event.
In a significant turn of events, Clappison was spared immediate imprisonment.
The judge emphasized that a key factor influencing this decision was Clappison’s honesty and frankness when questioned by police, despite the fact that the police investigation only commenced ten years after the original incident.
Clappison, who resides at Beech Court in Lincoln, admitted to four charges under the Sexual Offences Act related to the single incident in 2006.
Judge Heath sentenced Clappison to two years in prison, suspended for 12 months.
Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of five years.
The judge acknowledged the lasting and serious impact the assault had on the victim, stating that the case was a stark reminder of the long-term effects such crimes can have.
While the sentence might seem lenient given the nature of the offense, Judge Heath explained that Clappison’s personal growth over the years played a role in his decision.
The court noted that Clappison had matured significantly, evidenced by his recognition as “Employee of the Year” in 2016 and the positive references from colleagues, many of whom were women.
The judge also pointed out that Clappison’s decision to admit guilt, rather than remain silent about the events from a decade earlier, was a crucial factor in his sentencing.
The case underscores the importance of honesty and the long-lasting consequences of past actions, as well as the complexities involved in cases where significant time has elapsed since the offense.
