ELDERLY MAN JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON VULNERABLE WOMAN IN ST HELENS
A retired man purchased cuddly toys for a young woman who appeared vulnerable and stated it was "so I can do what I want to you." Sidney Southwood, aged 76, handed the gifts to the woman while she was shopping in St Helens town centre.Afterwards, he led her to a quiet area of wasteland near Duncan Avenue and attempted to touch her inappropriately.
Despite her protests and efforts to push him away, Southwood persistently kissed her.
Witnesses saw the disturbing assault and contacted the police, who subsequently arrested him.
Residing on Tickle Avenue in St Helens, Southwood, who had no prior criminal record, denied committing a sexual assault but was convicted following a trial.
The court was informed that he presented references from his daughter and brother.
The victim testified, saying, "I would like to say that before he did what he did to me, I used to be able to go out without anyone else with me.
Now my mum and my nan always have to go out with me." Prosecutors argued that Southwood had put his hand down her trousers, though the judge indicated that the jury was uncertain about this but was sure he had kissed her and held her waist.
Judge Stuart Driver, QC, sentenced Southwood to 18 months in prison, ordered him to register as a sex offender for ten years, and imposed a decade-long restraining order.
He acknowledged Southwood's good character and medical issues but highlighted the premeditated nature and exploitation involved in the offense.
Throughout the sentencing, Southwood displayed no emotion.
His daughter and a male companion exited the court angrily, passing by the shocked victim and her family.
The judge remarked that the victim’s experience must have been very distressing and expressed gratitude to her for attending court.
