McDonald's supervisor 'grabbed and squished' breasts of young trainee.

A McDonald's supervisor was convicted of sexually assaulting a young trainee at a Swindon restaurant.

Geary Fernandes, 34, was found guilty of assault by touching on 10 August following a trial at Swindon Magistrates' Court. The incident occurred in December 2022, when Fernandes allegedly grabbed and squeezed the breasts of the teenage girl while they were alone in the freezer section.

The victim, who was a new employee at the time, reported the assault to her mother after Fernandes asked her to stay late and she refused. She has since experienced anxiety, insecurity, and difficulty being around boys.

Fernandes, who is a father of one and expecting his second child in December, claimed the incident was an accident. However, the court heard that he is assessed as a medium risk of sexual reoffending.

Fernandes' lawyer argued for a community order or suspended sentence, citing his unemployment and the impact of immediate custody on his family. He also expressed remorse and acceptance of the verdict.

The magistrates ultimately sentenced Fernandes to a 20-week prison sentence, suspended for 18 months. He was also ordered to complete 40 rehabilitation activity days, pay £620 in costs and a £154 surcharge, and will remain a registered sex offender for seven years.

A Sexual Harm Prevention Order will be considered by the court on 9 October.

In a statement released following the conviction, Wiltshire Police investigator Tina Willison commended the victim for her bravery and emphasized the importance of reporting sexual assault. "We will always take reports like these seriously and victims will always be listened to," she said. "If you have a been a victim of a rape or sexual assault, please get in touch with us on 101. In an emergency, call 999."