A MAN has been placed on the sex offenders register for seven years after being convicted of ‘upskirting’ offences in Worcester city centre.
Richard Whyley, of Lavender Lane, Stourbridge, was sentenced at Worcester Crown Court on Monday (April 19) after he was caught upskirting in Worcester City Centre in August 2019.
Whyley first appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court in March 11 and pleaded guilty to four offences – voyeurism, operating equipment beneath clothing of another without consent and two counts of recording an image under clothing to observe another without consent.
Officers were first alerted after a 16-year-old girl raised the alarm while she was in a store on the High Street.
She reported Whyley was acting suspiciously. Officers located Whyley at University of Worcester Arena and arrested him.
A number of items were recovered including, a go-pro camera containing a memory card and boots which had been adapted with a hole drilled into the toe area.
A search was carried out of the go-pro camera and more than 6,000 images were discovered.
It is believed the images were of 235 separate victims who did not know photos had been taken by the 32-year-old
He was sentenced to Community Order for 36 months to include a supervision order for 36 months, attendance of a sex offenders’ programme, a rehabilitation activity requirement for 40 days and a curfew order for four months
As well signing the sex offenders register for seven years, Whyley was handed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for five years and ordered to pay £750 in compensation.
Sgt Chris Buffery who investigated the case, said: “Richard Whyley was quickly arrested after a member of the public noticed his suspicious behaviour. His other victims were not aware of what he was doing. I’d like to thank the victim who came forward for her bravery in raising the alarm.
“We have never been able to identify any other victims of this degrading crime, however it is those images which have helped to contribute to this case being brought to court.
“Anyone who believes they may be a victim of a sexual assault is encouraged to contact us and report it. Support is also available by contacting West Mercia’s Victim Advice Line. It is a free, independent and confidential support service.
“People can call 0800 952 3000 or visit the Victim Advice Line and do not have to have reported the offence to the police.”
