A vape shop owner has been locked up for sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl in his Paignton store. Janpal Singh, 27, from Exeter, was handed a hefty jail term after a sickening attack at his shop.
Six Years and Eight Months Behind Bars
Singh, who ran the ‘Fone Fix’ phone repair and vape shop on Victoria Street, was convicted at Plymouth Crown Court on Thursday, 23 April. He was sentenced to six years and eight months in prison. The court also slapped him with a ten-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and ruled he must sign the National Sex Offender Register for life.
Gruesome Assault After Teen Tried to Steal Vape
The shocking incident took place in 2023. The 13-year-old victim had attempted to swipe a vape from the shop without paying. Singh caught her and forced her behind the counter, where he sexually assaulted her.
“She was then detained by Singh who pushed her towards the back of the shop behind the counter and subjected her to a sexual assault,” the court heard.
Thankfully, the brave teenager managed to escape and reported the crime straight to police. After a gruelling trial, Singh was found guilty on 11 November 2025.
Justice Served
The victim’s courage has ensured Singh faces the full force of the law. Police and court officials hope this sends a clear message: predators won’t get away with targeting children.
