ABV SOLICITORS
How a sexual
offence solicitor can
help with upskirting
offences
In the media lately, there has been a lot of talk about
upskirting. This is a highly intrusive practice, as it
usually involves taking a photo under another
person’s clothing without them knowing with the
intention of viewing their genitals or buttocks (with
or without underwear). Both prosecution and defence
are handled by a sexual offence solicitor.
What counts as upskirting?
To fall foul of the new law, an image must firstly be
captured beneath someone’s clothing without their
knowledge. Secondly, it must be done for the purpose
of either sexual gratification, humiliation or distress.
The second part is key as it differentiates between
upskirting – which will now be a criminal offence –
and other forms of photography, such as taking a
picture of someone in a public place.
What is the maximum sentence?
If you are found guilty of upskirting, the maximum
sentence is 2 years in prison. So if you are accused,
contact a sexual offence solicitor.
This is the same as the maximum sentence for
voyeurism, which covers activities like secretly
filming someone undressing or using hidden
cameras to film people in private places like toilets
and changing rooms. The new law will see offenders
placed on the sex offenders register, which can be
devastating, so you need to seek the advice of a
sexual offence solicitor.
Where does upskirting take place?
Upskirting can take place anywhere; however, there
has been a recent rise in reports to the British
Transport Police (BTP) of upskirting taking place on
public transport.
This is likely due to the fact that offenders can more
easily target victims in crowded places and then
quickly leave the scene. If you are a victim of
upskirting on public transport, please report it to the
BTP. If you have been accused of upskirting, seek the
advice of a sexual offence solicitor as soon as
possible.
Who are the victims and offenders?
Victims of upskirting can be of any gender, but the
majority are women.
Anybody c