Man jailed for three years for sexually assaulting woman at City of London hotel

A man has been jailed for three years for sexually assaulting a woman while she slept at a hotel in the City of London.

David Horton, 47, of Pembroke Street, Rotherham, was found guilty of four counts of sexual assault and one count of assault by penetration at Inner London Crown Court on June 1, 2021. He had previously denied all charges against him.

Horton, who was a company director, was visiting London on May 18, 2018 and was due to go home later that evening, but missed the last train so decided to crash a girls night out and stay at a hotel, where he sexually assaulted a woman.

Detective Constable Vincent Baughan, from the City of London Police, said:

“I would like to thank everyone who has helped bring David Horton to justice, including those who provided CCTV evidence of his activities on the day, which played a considerable role in securing this conviction. 

“David Horton is an opportunistic criminal whose blatant disregard for the damage he caused to the victim of this appalling crime is apparent. 

“She has had to wait a long time to see that justice is done and she has shown courage and bravery throughout. My message to anyone who has had a sexual offence committed against them is that your voice will be heard.”

Horton was sentenced to three years in prison for assault by penetration and a total of 20 months imprisonment for four counts of sexual assault, to run concurrently, at Inner London Crown Court on July 23, 2021.

At the hearing, Her Honour Judge Karu the Honorary Recorder of Southwark, said that Horton showed no remorse for his actions and when on the stand, portrayed himself as the victim.

If you have experienced a sexual offence, or are concerned that someone you care about might be at risk, you can report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.  In an emergency always call 999.