Sex Offender Jailed After Knife Threat During Shocking Assault in Havant
Spybey’s Chilling Attack
Spybey, a man with no fixed address but formerly of Sandleford Road, Havant, has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman on the evening of 28 October last year. As the victim got into her parked car, Spybey suddenly approached her, touching her over her clothes and trying to hug and kiss her. When she pushed him away, he pulled out a knife and became aggressive, terrifying the woman before she managed to escape and go home.
Swift Police Action After Victim’s Bravery
The victim reported the attack online the very next day, providing enough details for police to identify and arrest Spybey quickly. The two were strangers. At trial, Spybey denied the sexual assault, dragging the victim through the ordeal of a court case. However, jurors saw through his lies and convicted him. He had already pleaded guilty to possessing a bladed article found on him at the time of arrest.
Police Appeal and Trial Details
Following the incident on London Road, police issued a public appeal confirming the suspect carried a knife during the attack. Detective Constable Dana Mabe, leading the investigation, praised the victim’s courage:
“This was undoubtedly a traumatic ordeal for the woman concerned and I cannot praise her enough for the courage and bravery she has shown in coming forward and reporting what happened to her and for the strength she has shown throughout the trial.
“We know it’s incredibly difficult to report incidents of this nature but with her help, we have been able to secure this guilty verdict and bring Spybey to justice.”
The trial was shifted from Portsmouth to Southampton Crown Court due to capacity issues.
Spybey’s Troubled Record
Spybey’s past is littered with run-ins with the law. Last April, he was jailed for 34 weeks after admitting to threatening damage, assaulting a police officer, using racist abuse, handling stolen goods, and possessing cannabis. He had also broken a suspended sentence for assaulting an emergency worker.
Support for Victims
Police urge all victims of sexual offences to report incidents promptly, even if unsure. A force spokeswoman said:
“Even if you’re not 100 percent sure, we’d sooner hear from you so that we can make sure you’re safe. If you’re not ready to talk to the police just yet, that’s OK. There are a range of places to get support, advice and medical help.”
Victims can speak to confidential organisations, with no information passed to police unless requested.
