A man has been jailed for one year and three months after he was found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman in Portsmouth in July last year.

At around 5.30pm on Monday 7 July 2025, the woman was walking along Winston Churchill Avenue when she became aware that a man was following her.

The man approached her, made sexual noises, and then grabbed her aggressively by the shoulders. He then proceeded to make sexual comments towards her.

The woman was frightened and attempted to fight him off. She was assisted by several members of the public who were driving past and stopped to help her.

A report was made to police and Conor Hodgkins, 35, of no fixed abode in Portsmouth, was arrested shortly afterwards. He was charged with sexual assault and remanded in custody later the same day.

Hodgkins appeared at Portsmouth Crown Court on Thursday 26 March, where he was found guilty by a unanimous jury following a three-day trial.

During the trial, Hodgkins was extremely disruptive and, when addressing the jury after they returned their verdict, the judge commented that “it has not been an easy experience for anybody.”

Hodgkins appeared at Isle of Wight Crown Court on Friday 12 June, where he was sentenced to 15 months imprisonment.

He was also ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for 10 years and is subject to a 10-year sexual harm prevention order.

The officer in charge of the investigation, Detective Constable Vivian Schram of the Serious and Complex Investigations team, said: “I am pleased to see the judge hand down this sentence, I hope the victim feels that this sentence reflects the seriousness of what she experienced, and that it provides her with a sense of justice.

“This has been a lengthy and difficult process for the victim, who has shown considerable courage and resilience throughout the investigation and court proceedings. Her strength in continuing to engage with the process, despite the challenges, has been instrumental in securing this outcome.

“I would also like to thank the members of the public who intervened at the time of the incident. Their actions undoubtedly helped to protect the victim, and their willingness to step in and assist is commendable.

“Sexual assault can have a profound and lasting impact on victims. We understand that coming forward can be incredibly difficult, but we want to reassure anyone affected that they will be listened to, taken seriously, and supported throughout.”

Support is available through the police and independent support services, regardless of when the offence took place. Anyone wishing to report a sexual offence or seek advice can contact police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Confidential support is also available through specialist victim support services.

Information on specialist services for victims of rape and sexual assault can be found on our website:

https://www.hampshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault/support-for-victims-of-rape-and-sexual-assault/