A man has been sentenced to six years in prison for sexually assaulting a woman at a Christmas party in Hastings.
Mohamed Elshamy, 41, met the victim at The Crypt, Robertson Street, in the early hours of Sunday 18 December 2022. CCTV footage showed him leading her out of the club and through an underpass to the seafront, where he was seen forcibly trying to kiss her and pulling at her clothing.
He then further sexually assaulted the 24-year-old woman on the beach before walking away and leaving her alone and in distress.
Elshamy, who is unemployed and from Carlisle Parade, Hastings, was identified through the CCTV images and arrested on suspicion of sexual assault.
He pleaded not guilty but was convicted following a trial at Lewes Crown Court. On June 26, he was sentenced to six years’ imprisonment and added to the Sex Offenders’ Register.
Investigating officer DC Kelly Yates commented on the case: “Mohamed Elshamy had only met the victim for a matter of minutes before taking advantage of the fact she was intoxicated and in a vulnerable state, and sexually assaulting her for his own gratification.
“The victim was not only left with physical injuries from the assault, but serious psychological scars requiring ongoing treatment and support.
“This assault will have a lasting impact on her and I absolutely commend her bravery in coming forward and providing evidence to help us secure this conviction.
“Elshamy’s behaviour was dangerous and predatory, and we’re pleased to see the severity of his actions reflected in a custodial sentence.”
