A PREDATOR who subjected a teenage girl to a horrific sexual assault on-board a train between Coventry and Birmingham International has been jailed for 12 years.
The 17-year-old was approached by Elemir Bandy, 61, as she sat on a bench at Coventry Station around 11.20am on April 3.
He attempted to speak to her but she dismissed him and walked away.
As they boarded the train to Birmingham New Street, Bandy continued to talk to her and gave her £20 ‘to get a drink’.
He then rubbed himself up against the victim, making her touch his crotch before kissing her on the face and sexually assaulting her.
The victim 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 her if she was okay and asked if Bandy had done anything to her.
When she replied he had, rail staff were were notified by the witnesses and it was reported to British Transport Police (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’.
At Birmingham Magistrates’ Court in May, Bandy, of Upper Normacot Road, Stoke on Trent, pleaded guilty to Sexual Assault by Penetration and three counts of Sexual Assault.
Last week, a judge sentenced him to the prison term, 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.
Det Sgt Mike LeConte, the case’s investigating officer, 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.”
He urged anyone who experienced or witnessed a sexual offence on the railways to report it to BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40.
“We will always take your report seriously and put offenders before the courts,” added DS LeConte.
