York man jailed for sexually harassing teen on train

Zainal Osman, aged 31, was recently sentenced after he approached a 15-year-old girl on a train from York to Sherburn-in-Elmet at approximately 21:50 BST on 25 May. Despite being visibly intoxicated, Osman made sexual comments to the girl and repeatedly professed his love for her, even after she informed him of her age. His actions prompted the girl to call the police, and a train ticket inspector intervened, helping her leave the train safely. British Transport Police officers responded at the next stop, Selby railway station, where Osman was arrested and taken into custody. Osman had previously been subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order due to a prior offence. He pleaded guilty to engaging in sexual communication with a minor and failing to notify police of a change of address, in violation of his legal requirements under the Sexual Offences Act. He was sentenced to 32 weeks in prison by York Magistrates' Court on 5 June and is required to sign the sex offenders register for 10 years. The police described the incident as a frightening ordeal for the victim, highlighting her bravery in bringing Osman to justice.