ALAN KIRBY FROM CUMBRIA AND HARROGATE SHOCKS COURT WITH FOOT-FETISH CRIME

In June 2013, a disturbing incident unfolded at a department store, where Alan Kirby, a 31-year-old man with a known foot fetish, committed a shocking act of sexual misconduct against a shop assistant. The incident took place in the shoe department, where Kirby had been observed loitering prior to his assault.

According to court proceedings, Kirby approached the young woman, who was working as a shop assistant, under the pretense of purchasing shoes for his girlfriend. He requested her to try on a pair of black sling-back heels, claiming it was for his supposed partner. As she complied, Kirby’s behavior took a disturbing turn. He began to ogle the shoes intently, but then unexpectedly dropped to his knees in front of her. Without warning, he started to engage in a bizarre and invasive examination, rubbing his fingers over her ankles and toes, and then sniffing at the leather of the shoes.

Prosecutor Nick Adlington described the incident to York Crown Court, stating, “Kirby stroked at her feet. He then revealed he hadn’t got a girlfriend and offered to buy the shoes for her.” The assistant, visibly shocked and uncomfortable, immediately fled the scene and sought assistance from another staff member. It was revealed that Kirby had been drinking in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, prior to the incident.

Judge Shaun Spencer condemned Kirby’s actions, describing his conduct as “disgraceful” towards the shop assistant. The judge emphasized the distress such behavior causes to women, warning Kirby that any repetition would result in serious legal consequences. “It must be a distressing matter to any woman who has to put with this. And I can tell you if you do anything like this again, you will be in serious trouble,” the judge stated.

Currently residing in the Lake District, Kirby pleaded guilty to sexual assault. He was sentenced to a six-month community order, which requires him to complete 60 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, a restraining order was imposed to prevent any contact with the victim. During the court hearing, Kirby confirmed his identity and acknowledged his understanding of the sentence, but he declined to make any further comments as he left the courtroom.