Hampshire Man Jailed for Sexual Assault

A 36-year-old Hampshire man has been jailed after admitting a sexual assault that took place in the early hours of the morning.

Paul Kevin Leslie Kearslake, aged 36, of Warwick Crescent in Southsea, was sentenced to 28 months in prison at Portsmouth Crown Court.

On Monday, January 8, a 37-year-old woman was approached by a man she did not know on Albert Road, Southsea, shortly before 2:30 AM. Kearslake made sexualized comments towards her before touching her inappropriately over her clothing, Hampshire Police said. He ran off when she screamed.

Kearslake admitted both offenses at Portsmouth Magistrates Court on Wednesday, January 10 and was sentenced at Portsmouth Crown Court on Friday, May 3.

Detective Inspector Claire Ratcliffe said: "I'm pleased that Kearslake admitted these offenses without the need for a trial. The sentence imposed underlines the seriousness of his offending. This was a frightening experience for the victim and I hope such a swift resolution to the investigation and court process will provide her some reassurance."

"Reducing violence against women and girls remains one of our top priorities in Portsmouth and together with other agencies we do a lot of work to tackle this issue. Our Operation Rigging patrols see officers out and about in the city center at our busiest times, identifying and intercepting predatory or concerning behavior towards women."

"I would like to take this opportunity to remind people that if you have been the victim of a sexual offense, please report it to us – you will be listened to and you will be taken seriously. We will also work to get you the support that you need."