Man charged with sexual assault in Bracknell
A man has been sentenced for a sexual assault in Bracknell.
53 year-old Stewart Neil, of Galton Way, Warfield, Bracknell, pleaded guilty to one count of sexual assault on the first day of his trial at Reading Crown Court on 1 September.
Neil was given a two-year community order and five-year restraining order, ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work, and placed on the sex offenders register for five years at Reading Magistrates’ Court on 13 October.
Investigating officer PC Helen Darroch said: "I would like to commend the victim for the tremendous courage and resilience she has shown in reporting this sexual assault and supporting the investigation through to its conclusion.
“We recognise how difficult it can be for victims of sexual offences to come forward, and her bravery has been instrumental in bringing Stewart Neil to justice. His sentence demonstrates that such behaviour carries serious consequences.
“Sexual offences can have a profound and lasting impact on victims; nobody should ever be subjected to unwanted sexual touching or behaviour of this nature.
“We have a zero-tolerance approach to sexual abuse, sexual assault, and all forms of violence against women and girls so we remain committed to supporting victims and holding offenders accountable for their actions.
“I hope this outcome provides reassurance to the victim and demonstrates that reports of sexual offending are taken seriously. I would encourage anybody who has experienced a sexual offence to come forward, safe in the knowledge that they will be listened to, treated with dignity and respect, and supported throughout the process."