Hertford sex offender sentenced

A Hertford man has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register after sexually assaulting a woman during a night out.

Jamie Cooper-Hawkins, aged 33, was sentenced at St Albans Crown Court on Friday 28th February having previously been found guilty of sexual assault following a trial in December.

The offence took place in Hertford in May 2022, when Cooper-Hawkins, of Smeaton Court, was caught on CCTV sexually touching a 19-year-old woman’s intimate area over her clothing without consent.

He was placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for 10 years and sentenced to 10 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months.

He must also, complete 200 hours unpaid work, 30 days rehabilitation activity, and pay £4,380 in costs.

Investigator Gary Bangs, from the East Herts Local Crime Unit, said: "This was a despicable crime against a young woman who was simply enjoying a night out with friends.

"Women have the right to go about their lives without being subjected to inappropriate touching, either from men or anyone else.

"I hope this serves as a warning to others that we take these matters seriously and will take action against those who choose to behave in this way."

During the trial, Cooper-Hawkins was found not guilty in relation to a separate charge of sexual assault on a second woman on the same night.