ZACKERY BELL FROM PORTSMOUTH SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES IN WATERLOOVILLE AND CHICHESTER
In a case that has sent shockwaves through the local communities, Zackery Stephen Bell, a 28-year-old man from Portsmouth, has been handed a substantial prison sentence after pleading guilty to multiple sexual offences committed in Waterlooville and Chichester, West Sussex.The sentencing took place at Portsmouth Crown Court on Thursday, June 23, following a detailed investigation and legal proceedings that uncovered a disturbing pattern of criminal behavior.
According to court records, the first incident occurred on December 6, 2020, when Bell visited the residence of a woman in Waterlooville.
The victim, who was in her 20s at the time and is now 30, had responded to an advertisement posted on Facebook Marketplace.
Bell’s visit was ostensibly related to this online transaction, but the encounter quickly turned sinister.
Once inside the victim’s home, Bell forcibly kissed her and inappropriately touched her over her clothing.
The victim managed to disturb him during the assault, prompting Bell to leave the premises.
Despite his departure, Bell continued to pursue contact with her by sending a message via Facebook, asking her to meet again.
The incident was reported to the police the following day, leading to an investigation that resulted in Bell’s arrest and subsequent charges of sexual assault.
His legal troubles did not end there.
While on bail for the initial offences, Bell traveled to Chichester, where he was staying with a woman known to him.
He was supposed to be staying on her sofa for the night, but in the early hours of Boxing Day morning, he entered the bedroom of another woman while she was asleep and committed a sexual assault.
The victim was awakened by his intrusion and shouted at him to leave, but the damage was already done.
Bell’s actions in Chichester compounded his legal issues, culminating in his sentencing to a total of six years in prison—four years for the offences committed in Sussex and two years for the earlier offences in Hampshire.
In addition to his prison term, Bell was ordered to comply with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for ten years and a lifetime Restraining Order that prohibits any contact with both victims.
Furthermore, he will be registered as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions.
This case highlights the serious consequences of sexual misconduct and the importance of justice for victims in the Portsmouth, Waterlooville, and Chichester areas.
