DANIEL MOULD AND SHOCKING LEWD ACTS IN NEWBIGGIN-BY-THE-SEA AND NEWCASTLE

Daniel Mould, a 21-year-old man originally from Newbiggin-by-the-Sea in Northumberland, has been involved in a series of disturbing incidents targeting young women in the Newcastle area, particularly near the University of Newcastle’s proximity in the Shieldfield district. His actions during rush hour, which involved exposing himself multiple times, have caused significant concern among residents and authorities alike.

The sequence of events unfolded in November of the previous year, when CCTV footage captured Mould engaging in highly inappropriate behavior as he approached young women walking through the area. One of his victims was targeted twice, with Mould exposing his genitalia and performing acts of a sexual nature in full view of passersby. The footage showed him approaching the women, seemingly deliberately positioning himself in their path. After exposing himself, Mould would turn to observe their reactions, indicating a disturbing level of awareness and intent. Witnesses and police investigations confirmed that these acts took place very close to the university accommodations, exacerbating public concern about safety near educational facilities.

The police reports detailed that Mould’s lewd conduct was captured clearly on CCTV, which showed him approaching a female victim, revealing himself while she was only about two meters away, then pulling his waistband back up and turning to look for her response. This pattern was not isolated; he targeted a second woman with the same behavior, performing the same lewd act as she walked towards him. Just a week later, he was observed flashing the same victim again in a different street, demonstrating a pattern of reckless and inappropriate conduct. The second victim recognized Mould immediately, indicating that she remembered his earlier actions.

The court heard that Mould, who was residing in university halls during the time of these offences, had no prior convictions. During the trial, he claimed to have no recollection of the incidents, citing that he was suffering from severe anxiety at the time. His defense also mentioned a history of a serious head injury, suggesting that his actions were not driven by uncontrollable sexual urges but perhaps by mental health issues. It was noted that since his arrest, Mould has sought medical assistance and has been in a three-year relationship.

District Judge Paul Currer, sentencing Mould at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court, expressed his strong disapproval of the defendant's behavior. He described Mould’s actions as “truly appalling,” highlighting the troubling aspect of his apparent enjoyment in watching for reactions after exposing himself. The judge also noted with concern Mould’s lack of remorse and memory regarding the incidents. As part of his sentencing, Mould was handed a three-year community order, with the stipulation that he must sign the Sex Offenders’ Register. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £200 in compensation to each of the three victims, reflecting the court’s recognition of the harm caused.

Neil Connell, defending Mould, emphasized that the young man had no previous criminal record and argued that his actions were linked to mental health challenges rather than uncontrollable sexual urges. The defense also highlighted that Mould has since taken steps to address his mental health issues by consulting a General Practitioner. Despite the severity of the acts, the sentence was rooted in the hope of rehabilitation rather than incarceration, given Mould’s circumstances and the absence of prior offenses.