Man sentenced after sexually assaulting a teenager – West Midlands

A sexual predator who subjected a teenage girl to a horrific sexual assault has been sentenced following an extensive British Transport Police (BTP) investigation.

He targeted a 17-year-old girl on-board a service travelling between Coventry and Birmingham International in April.

Elemir Bandy, aged 61, and of Upper Normacot Road, Stoke on Trent, appeared at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 3 May where he pleaded guilty to Sexual Assault by Penetration and three counts of Sexual Assault.

On Friday 12 August, a judge sentenced him to 12 years’ imprisonment, comprising of a six-year custodial term and an extension period of six years.

He was also placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life, barred and disqualified from working with children and adults, and given a sexual harm prevention order for 12 years.

At 11.20am on Sunday 3 April, Bandy approached the victim who was sat on a bench at Coventry station and attempted to engage her in conversation. She dismissed him and walked away.

They both boarded the train to Birmingham New Street and Bandy continued to talk to the victim and gave her £20 to get a drink.

On the train Bandy then rubbed himself against the victim, making her touch his crotch, before kissing her on the face. He then proceeded to sexually assault her by digital penetration.

The 17-year-old was left with marks on her neck from the assault.

Two passengers on the train made their way over to the ongoing situation and intervened after seeing how uncomfortable the young woman was. One asked, "are you okay?" and “has he done anything to you”. The brave victim replied, "yes".

Rail staff were notified by the witnesses and it was reported to BTP. Bandy was immediately arrested by officers on the platform at Birmingham International station.

In his first police interview he stated he thought she was a prostitute and that is why he gave her the money, however during his second interview he declared, “I admit everything”.

Detective Sergeant Mike LeConte, investigating officer in the case, said: "This has been an incredible case of teamwork, from the bravery of the two bystanders who intervened and offered key evidence to the dedicated work of officers who quickly secured evidence to ensure Bandy was charged and remanded the day after the incident.

"My thoughts go to the victim, her bravery in coming forward was crucial in the case and has led to this predator removed from the community.

“Sexual offences are a key priority for us at BTP, everyone has the right to travel in safety and without fear.

“I urge anyone who experiences or witnesses a sexual offence on the railway to report it to us by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40. We will always take your report seriously and put offenders before the courts."