A man has been jailed for upskirting teenage girls after a Poundland staff member reported his suspicious behaviour. Isa Ayan, 38, of Carmarthen, was sentenced to 18 months in prison after pleading guilty to three counts of attempting to operate equipment beneath the clothing of another without consent.
Vigilant staff member triggers investigation
On February 10, a staff member at the Carmarthen Poundland store contacted police due to concerns that Ayan was attempting to take a picture under a schoolgirl's skirt. Detectives launched an investigation and arrested Ayan.
Digital forensic enquiries revealed that Ayan had taken images of three schoolgirls from the Carmarthen area, aged between 13 and 14. The victims were unaware that inappropriate pictures had been taken of them.
Sentencing and protective orders
In addition to the prison sentence, Ayan was added to the sex offenders register and made subject to a sexual harm prevention order, both for ten years.
Detective sergeant Carl Pocock said: "The offences committed by Isa Ayan are particularly disturbing. The investigation team are thankful to the member of staff at Poundland who reported their initial concerns to police. Their vigilance subsequently led to Ayan’s arrest and charge."
Police praise victims' bravery
Following Ayan’s arrest, enquiries uncovered the extent of his offending. Police spoke to victims and their families, all of whom were completely unaware that the offences had taken place.
Pocock added: "It must be highlighted that despite the victims’ initial lack of awareness of Ayan’s degrading offending, it does not minimise the impact it has had upon them. We commend them for their bravery and dignity in assisting us with our investigation, after what must have been highly distressing information to receive."
Pocock encouraged the public to report any suspicious, inappropriate, predatory acts or behaviours, whether as a victim or a witness. He said: "I hope this case demonstrates that by working together with the public and our partners we can secure convictions for dangerous offenders, whilst safeguarding those most vulnerable within our communities."
