A former head chef at a Michelin-starred restaurant has been handed a suspended prison sentence after being convicted of sexual assault and attempting to fabricate evidence using a fake WhatsApp message generator.
Details of the Assault and Deception
Shannon White, aged 31, sexually assaulted a woman in her twenties at The Chubby Castor restaurant on Peterborough Road in Castor. The incident occurred around 1pm on October 18, 2024. According to reports, the victim had rejected White's advances, but he persisted, applying pressure by putting his hands around her neck while whispering sexual comments. He touched her multiple times, resisting her attempts to push him away.
Fabricated Evidence Uncovered
During the investigation, Cambridge Constabulary examined White's phone and discovered he had used a fake WhatsApp generator to create a message. This fabricated communication was intended to appear as if it had been sent by the victim, serving as a defence to cover his tracks after the assault.
Court Sentencing and Response
White, of Verde Close in Eye, near Peterborough, was found guilty of sexual assault by a judge at Peterborough Magistrates' Court on January 26. He received a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, and was issued a two-year restraining order against the victim.
Following the hearing, DC Stacey Caley, the investigating officer, commented on the case. "White shamefully attacked the victim and then used a fake app in an attempt to cover up his tracks," she said. "Although the sentence was not custodial, I hope it reassures the victim that justice has been done. It also highlights how seriously we take all allegations of violence against women and girls."
Call to Action for Victims
DC Caley urged anyone affected by similar incidents to come forward. "If you or someone you know has been a victim, we urge you to get in touch," she added, emphasising the police's commitment to addressing such crimes.
