David Prout, a former pub landlord in Byker, Newcastle, has been sentenced to 21 months in prison for sexually assaulting a woman who was left curled up on the floor in tears. The 47-year-old, who also held a taxi licence, ignored the victim's pleas to stop and repeatedly put his hand over her mouth.
The Assault
Prosecutor Jessica Slaughter told Newcastle Crown Court that Prout made unwanted advances, kissing the woman against her wishes and groping her chest, including beneath her bra. He ignored her attempts to push him away and forced her back into her seat. Slaughter said: 'He repeatedly put his hand over her mouth and said 'shhhh'.' The victim tried to run but Prout grabbed her. She ended up curled on the floor, crying hysterically, begging him to leave her alone.
Aftermath
The woman's partner discovered the scene and called the police. In a victim impact statement, she said: 'The assault has had a long-lasting impact on my day-to-day life and it left me in emotional turmoil.' She also suffers from anxiety and recurring flashbacks.
Conviction and Sentence
Prout, of Bothal Street, Byker, maintained the sexual activity was consensual but was convicted of two counts of sexual assault and acquitted of a third. Judge Gavin Doig praised the victim's bravery. Prout was sentenced to 21 months in prison, must sign the sex offenders register for ten years, and received a ten-year restraining order.
Defence lawyer Kelly Clarke said Prout continues to insist on his innocence but acknowledged the jury's verdict. Clarke noted that Prout ran the pub for six years and held a taxi licence, which he has forfeited due to the conviction. He is currently unemployed and caring for his young child while his partner works.
