A Metropolitan Police sergeant has been sentenced to two years in prison for sexually assaulting a stranger during his stag night at Brighton. Laurence ‘Larry’ Knight, aged 34, committed the assault after his group of friends had been entertained by strippers at their Airbnb in the popular seaside resort. Knight encountered the 21-year-old victim in Brighton town center on July 17, 2021, when social distancing measures were still in place due to the Covid-19 pandemic. They went into the sea together, and it was there that Knight inappropriately touched her after she mentioned his impending wedding. Knight, who had previously worked in royalty protection, denied charges of rape and sexual assault but was found guilty of the latter by a jury. The court heard that the victim had to seek counseling, which she had to pay for herself, as a result of the incident. She experienced fear, anxiety, and dark thoughts as a result of the assault. The victim’s mother also provided a statement to the court. She described how her daughter, who was usually full of life, had become broken and defeated after the assault. The victim’s innocent view of the world had been shattered, and she was no longer her fearless self. The prosecution argued that Knight being a police officer aggravated the offense, emphasizing the need for a proper sentence. Knight’s defense lawyer, Alisa Williamson, stated that the victim may be able to start her recovery now that the trial is over. When considering the severity of the psychological harm caused, Knight’s resignation from the police force, the impact on his career prospects, and his remorse, immediate custody was deemed necessary by the judge. Knight was sentenced to two years in prison, with a restraining order preventing him from contacting the victim. He will also be on the sex offenders register for ten years. Knight’s family members were visibly upset as he was jailed. Knight admitted to pulling the woman’s bikini bottoms to one side but claimed he stopped when he realized his actions were wrong. He denied penetrating her during the incident. The prosecution described the events leading up to the assault, indicating that the two groups of friends had crossed paths in Brighton town center and ended up walking together to the beach. The victim was friendly and helpful throughout, interacting with Knight and his friends. She stated that Knight insisted on going into the sea, despite her reluctance. The victim described Knight and his friends as talkative and funny but did not perceive herself as being heavily intoxicated. She confirmed having consumed some alcohol but did not consider herself drunk. The judge acknowledged Knight’s regret for his actions but highlighted the severe psychological harm inflicted on the victim and the careful planning that went into the assault. The victim’s vulnerability due to alcohol consumption was also noted. In conclusion, the judge deemed the offense too serious to warrant a suspended sentence. Knight will serve half of his two-year sentence behind bars.
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