A man who exposed himself to a young woman on a train from London to St Albans has been sentenced to a year in prison following a British Transport Police investigation.
Shane Youngman, 43, of Icarus Avenue, Burgess Hill, West Sussex, admitted to the offence of exposure and was jailed on Friday, 7 February, at Crawley Magistrates’ Court. In addition to his custodial sentence, Youngman was handed a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and a Criminal Behaviour Order.
The court heard that on 19 February 2023, Youngman boarded a train at London Bridge and deliberately chose to sit opposite his victim, a 19-year-old woman, despite there being other available seats. He proceeded to stare at her, making her feel uncomfortable, before touching himself over his trousers and then exposing himself.
The distressed victim managed to change carriages, but Youngman followed her a short time later. In desperation, she moved again and sought help from a group of women on the train, who supported her and assisted in raising the alarm.
Police were alerted, and Youngman was arrested upon arrival at St Albans City railway station.
Under the terms of his SHPO, Youngman must notify his allocated offender manager at least 24 hours before travelling on the railway network. The order also prohibits him from approaching, following, touching, or attempting to communicate with any females while using public transport. Additionally, he is banned from undoing or removing any clothing in a public place or engaging in lewd behaviour.
Breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order is a criminal offence and can result in further imprisonment.
DC Stacey Adams of British Transport Police condemned Youngman’s actions, stating: “Youngman’s behaviour was absolutely disgusting, and there is zero tolerance for this on the rail network. I would like to commend the victim for her bravery in reporting the incident and thank the group of women who came to her aid.”
She added: “Not only has Youngman received a custodial sentence, but he will also live under the restrictions of his SHPO for five years to prevent further offending. Tackling violence against women and girls is one of our key priorities. Anyone who is a victim of a sexual offence can report it discreetly by texting 61016. Always call 999 in an emergency.”
