British Transport Police have released images of a man following an alleged sexual offence on a train. The incident occurred on a southbound service to East Croydon, London, at around 6:30 am on Friday, May 22. According to police, the man exposed himself to a woman and then approached her and began masturbating.
Incident Details
The man boarded the train at Clapham Junction in South London and alighted at East Croydon station. The victim moved away from him initially, but he followed her and committed the act. Detectives are keen to speak to the individual pictured, believing he may have information crucial to their investigation.
Suspect Description
The suspect is described as a black male wearing a brown sweatshirt and beige trousers. The sweatshirt features a large white or yellow slogan on the back, though the text is largely illegible. He also wore a black cap and a thick silver chain. Police have not provided an estimated age, but he appears to be a young adult.
Appeal for Information
Anyone who recognises the man is urged to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 405040, quoting reference 167 of May 22. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Legal Context
Flashing, or indecent exposure, is a criminal offence in the UK where someone deliberately exposes their genitals to frighten or upset another person. The maximum sentence for this offence is two years' imprisonment.
In a related case, James Gathercole, 40, from Streatham, south London, was recently jailed for masturbating on a train to East Grinstead, West Sussex, on July 15, 2025. He had been released from prison just 12 days prior after committing a similar offence on May 26, 2024. Gathercole was caught staring at a woman before exposing himself and masturbating as the carriage emptied at East Croydon. The victim reported him to station staff after getting off at Upper Warlingham.
