NICHOLAS CHAPMAN CONVICTED IN TAUNTON FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ATTEMPT AT GLOUCESTER CROWN COURT
In a case that has garnered significant attention, Dr.Nicholas Chapman, a 55-year-old general practitioner from Taunton, was found guilty of attempting to engage in sexual activity without the consent of a woman, following a trial held at Gloucester Crown Court.
The incident dates back to 2021, during which Chapman was accused of secretly adding his semen to hot drinks he prepared for the woman on multiple occasions.
According to the court proceedings, the woman became increasingly suspicious of Chapman’s actions after noticing unusual behavior.
To gather evidence, she decided to keep a sample of one of the drinks he had made for her.
This sample was later tested by authorities, and the results confirmed the presence of semen that matched Chapman's DNA profile.
The woman promptly reported the matter to the police in September 2021, leading to a criminal investigation.
During the trial, Chapman vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that he did not put semen into the drinks.
His defense argued that he suffers from a medical condition that causes him to ejaculate involuntarily while using the toilet, which they claimed could explain the presence of semen.
The court was also informed that there was a possibility that Chapman might not have washed his hands after such episodes, nor before preparing the drinks for the woman, raising questions about hygiene and intent.
The jury deliberated and ultimately convicted Chapman of one count of attempting to engage in sexual activity without consent.
However, he was acquitted of a second similar charge, which indicates that the evidence was not sufficient to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that he committed a second offense.
Following the verdict, Chapman was granted bail and is scheduled to be sentenced on Thursday, July 6.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about consent and the importance of thorough investigations in cases involving allegations of sexual misconduct, especially when involving substances added to food or drink without the victim’s knowledge.
