Jail for man who exposed himself on train – St Albans

A man who exposed himself on a train from London to St Albans has been jailed for a year following a British Transport Police investigation.  

 

The court heard how Shane Youngman, 43, was on a train from London Bridge on 19 February 2023 when he sat opposite the victim, a woman aged 19 at the time, even though there were seats available elsewhere.

 

Youngman stared at her, making her feel uncomfortable, before touching himself over his trousers and then exposing himself. The victim managed change carriages, but a short time later Youngman followed. In desperation, the woman moved again and told a group of other women what had happened.

 

Police were called and Youngman was arrested at St Albans City railway station.

 

Youngman, of Icarus Avenue, Burgess Hill, West Sussex admitted exposure and on Friday 7 February at Crawley Magistrates' Court he was jailed for a year. He was also given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and a Criminal Behaviour Order for five years.

 

The SHPO means Youngman has to notify his allocated offender manager at least 24 hours before travelling on the railway network and bans him from approaching, following, touching, or making any attempts to communicate with any females while doing so, as well as undoing or removing any clothing in a public place or touching himself in a way which would be considered lewd in a public place.

 

Breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order is a criminal offence and can result in further custodial time.

 

DC Stacey Adams said: “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 reporting what happened and thank the group of women on the train who helped her.

 

“Not only has Youngman received a custodial sentence, but he will also live with the restrictions of his SHPO for five years to prevent him reoffending. Tackling violence against women and girls is one of our key priorities. Anyone who is a victim of a sexual offence can report it discreetly to us by texting 61016. Always call 999 in an emergency.”