Photographer Pascal Molliere Found Guilty of Sexual Assault
Pascal Molliere, aka Pascal Gerrard, 55, from Wandsworth, was convicted on three counts of sexual assault at Southwark Crown Court on 25 February. Sentencing is set for 12 April.
Brave Survivor Speaks Out
Detective Constable David Roberts praised the victim’s courage. “Reliving this trauma is horrific,” he said. “Her composure throughout the trial has astounded us.”
Roberts urges others who might have suffered at Molliere’s hands to come forward. Molliere is known by both names, and the police offer anonymous reporting options for victims.
How Molliere Lured His Victim
The victim, a woman in her 20s with acting ambitions, contacted Molliere in July 2010 via a casting website. Believing him to be a reputable photographer, she booked a headshot session priced at £400.
He told her to bring alternative clothes, including lingerie, suggesting provocative shots for her portfolio.
At his Fulham studio, Molliere locked the door, claiming it was for privacy. As the shoot progressed, he became increasingly tactile, ultimately assaulting her with unwanted sexual touching and kissing.
Victim Faced Fear and Distress
The woman felt trapped, too scared to resist or show her distress. Molliere pushed her into provocative poses while locking the studio door. She only left after the shoot and refused his invitation to another session at his home.
Immediately after, she told her boyfriend, who confronted Molliere. Molliere refunded the £400, a move prosecutors said showed his guilt.
Justice After Years of Silence
The victim came forward in 2019 after reading about Molliere’s previous court case and inspired by the Me Too movement. Her bravery has now seen Molliere found guilty.
