Train perv jailed for exposing himself to young woman on London to St Albans service
Grotesque Incident on London Bridge to St Albans Train
A 43-year-old man has been locked up for a year after flashing a 19-year-old woman on a train from London Bridge to St Albans City. Shane Youngman, from Burgess Hill, West Sussex, shocked passengers on 19 February 2023 when he deliberately sat opposite the victim despite plenty of empty seats.
Youngman made the woman feel uneasy by staring at her before brazenly touching himself over his trousers and then exposing himself fully. The terrified victim tried to escape by moving carriages – but Youngman stalked her again, forcing her to run for safety a second time.
Thankfully, a group of quick-thinking female passengers stepped in to support her and alerted British Transport Police. Officers swooped and arrested Youngman at St Albans City station.
12 Months Inside and Tough Restrictions
Crawley Magistrates’ Court handed Youngman a 12-month prison sentence after he admitted the exposure charge on Friday 7 February. He was also slapped with a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and a five-year Criminal Behaviour Order.
The SHPO demands that Youngman:
- Notifies his offender manager at least 24 hours before travelling on any railway network.
- Must not follow, approach, touch or try to communicate with any female passengers on public transport.
- Is banned from removing clothes or engaging in lewd acts in public places.
Breaching the Sexual Harm Prevention Order is a criminal offence that could land Youngman back behind bars.
Police Condemn ‘Absolutely Disgusting’ Behaviour
Detective Constable Stacey Adams slammed Youngman’s vile actions: “Youngman’s behaviour was absolutely disgusting, and there is zero tolerance for this on the rail network. I would like to commend the victim for her bravery in reporting what happened and thank the group of women on the train who helped her during such a distressing time.”
She added: “Not only has Youngman received a custodial sentence, but the SHPO will impose strict conditions on him for the next five years, significantly limiting his ability to reoffend. Tackling violence against women and girls is one of our key priorities, and we will not hesitate to take action against offenders like Youngman.”
Support for Victims and How to Report
The British Transport Police urges all victims of sexual offences on public transport to come forward. DC Adams said: “Anyone who is a victim of a sexual offence on public transport can report it discreetly by texting 61016. In an emergency, always call 999.”
This case highlights the importance of passengers speaking out and supporting victims. The force praised the quick response of bystanders, reminding everyone that vigilance helps keep public travel safe.
- Victim Support: Those affected by sexual harassment or assault can access national helplines and local advice services.
- Reporting Incidents: Contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 101. For emergencies, dial 999.
