A 34-year-old man has been jailed for sexually assaulting a young woman on a train between Birmingham and Manchester
Kristaps Berzins, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to sexual assault at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court
The court heard that despite the woman wearing headphones, he attempted to engage her in conversation making personal and inappropriate comments.
Berzins remarks became increasingly aggressive eventually escalating to him sexually assaulting the woman.
When Berzins went to the toilet the woman quickly moved to another seat and reported what had happened to a member of train staff who alerted British Transport Police.
He was jailed for seven months and issued with a five year Sexual Harm Prevention order which forbids him from sitting next to or across from, approaching, touching or communicating with any lone female on public transport.
He must also sign the sex offenders register for seven years and pay compensation of £ 300
Investigating officer PC Molly Brunton Cole said: “This was a terrifying encounter for the young woman who bravely reported the incident and supported the investigation.
“Thankfully now Berzins is one more sexual predator off the streets.
“We take all reports of sexual harassment and unwanted sexual behaviour seriously and will support victims throughout our investigations.
