July 2023

Man sentenced for sexual assault incidents in Andover

A man has been sentenced to two years in prison for sexually assaulting four people which included two teenage girls in Andover last month.

James Michael Ford, 33, of Dines Close in Andover, appeared before Winchester Crown Court yesterday (Thursday 27 July) for sentencing.

He also received a seven year restraining order for each of the victims and his Sexual Harm Prevention order amended to include further restrictions.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault, two counts of indecent exposure, and breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order at Basingstoke Magistrates Court on 26 June.

At around 1pm on 23 June, a 29-year-old woman was on Anton Lane when Ford cycled past her. He then dismounted from his bicycle and pulled down his trousers before putting his hand in his pants and touching himself inappropriately in front of her.

A short while later, Ford cycled past a 17-year-old girl and sexually assaulted her. This was at the junction of Colonzo Drive and Vigo Road.

Officers then received a report at around 2.45pm that a 23-year-old woman saw a man masturbating in some bushes on Picket Twenty.

Ford also assaulted a 14-year-old girl on the same day. At around 4pm the victim was walking on Anton Lane Path when Ford cycled past her and sexually assaulted her.

Following police enquiries, Ford was arrested at his home address on 24 June. Whilst at his address, officers seized a bicycle matching the description given by the victims.