Blackpool creep jailed for sexual assault on train
Danger on the rails
Phillip Clive Butterworth, 70, of New Oceans Hotel, Blackpool, has been locked up for 27 months after pleading guilty to sexual assault. The sentence was handed down at Blackpool Crown Court on Monday, 7 December.
Predatory attack during train journey
Butterworth targeted a young woman waiting at Blackpool North station on 9 January this year. He approached her, asking if she was travelling alone. Once she got on the train, he sat beside her and made lewd sexual suggestions, trapping her in her seat for the entire 25-minute journey while touching her inappropriately.
Victim left terrified
The terrified victim sent desperate texts to her mum pleading, “help me” and asking for advice on what to do. Detective Constable Chris Biggs slammed Butterworth’s actions:
“This was a vile and disgusting assault on a vulnerable young woman who was left terrified by Butterworth’s disgusting and inappropriate behaviour. The sentence handed down reflects the severity of his actions and will give the victim some comfort as she attempts to recover from this deeply traumatising incident.”
Long-lasting consequences for offender
Butterworth was also slapped with a restraining order barring him from contacting the victim. On top of that, he will remain on the sex offenders register for 10 years.
Police urge anyone worried about their safety on the train network to text 61016 discreetly to report concerns or incidents.
