Vape shop owner from Paignton jailed for sexually assaulting teenager
Exeter man sentenced after assaulting 13-year-old girl
A Paignton vape shop owner has been sentenced to over six years in prison for sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl in his shop.
Janpal Singh, 27, from Exeter, was convicted of the assault and given six years and eight months in jail at Plymouth Crown Court on 23rd April.
Singh, who owned ‘Fone Fix’, a phone repair and vape shop on Victoria Street, was accused of assaulting the teenager in 2023.
The incident occurred when the victim attempted to take a vape from the shop without payment.
She was detained by Singh, who then pushed her towards the back of the shop behind the counter where the sexual assault took place.
The teenager managed to flee the scene and reported the incident to the police.
Singh was found guilty of sexual assault against the victim during the trial held on 11th November 2025.
In addition to the prison sentence, Singh received a ten-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and was obligated to sign the National Sex Offender Register.
Detective Constable Rachael Delaney praised the victim's courage, saying:
"I sincerely hope that today’s outcome will encourage others to come forward to report sexual abuse and gives them the confidence to know that they will be believed and listened to."
Survivors of sexual offences are legally protected and guaranteed lifelong anonymity.
Support and guidance are available for anyone who has experienced sexual assault.
Victims can report such incidents to the police or anonymously to Crimestoppers.
Several agencies in Devon and Cornwall offer support, including the National Rape Crisis Helpline and the Sexual Assault Referral Centres.
Victim care services are accessible through Home - Victim Care Devon & Cornwall, providing assistance, information, and rights navigation.