Chichester Man On Sexual Offenders' Register After Groping Woman On Bus

Tuesday, 9 August 2022 06:51

A Chichester man who groped a woman on a bus has been placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register after pleading guilty to sexual assault.

It happened on the evening of Saturday, October 12, 2021 when 27-year-old Esosa Eguakun, of Stockbridge Road in Chichester, boarded a bus at Chichester Bus Station.

Police say the bus was almost empty, but Eguakan sat directly behind a woman in her 20s, making her feel uncomfortable and threatened.

During the journey Eguakun put his hands through the back of the seat and repeatedly touched the woman’s bottom.

When she alighted the bus at the next stop, Eguakan followed her, so she told the driver what had happened and the driver called the police.

Officers arrived and arrested Eguakun in Chichester Road, Bognor Regis.

During interview, he denied the offence, but later confessed to sexual assault, with which he was subsequently charged.

He pleaded guilty at court and, on Monday, July 25, he was placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for five years, ordered to complete a 30-day rehabilitation programme, 200 hours of unpaid work and pay compensation to the victim.

Detective Sergeant Rebecca Hopkins said:

“This was an extremely distressing experience for a young woman who was simply trying to make her way home.

“I would like to thank her for reporting the incident, allowing our officers to swiftly arrest a suspect, and supporting our investigation to help bring Esosa Eguakun to justice.

“I also commend responding and investigating officers for their thorough initial investigation, proactive arrest and a rigorous interview process that ultimately resulted in a confession.

“Women and girls should not have to worry about being sexually harassed and assaulted while going about the most routine, daily activities.

“As a force we remain committed to preventing violence against women and girls, catching perpetrators and giving victims the support and justice they deserve.”