A MAN who groped a woman on a bus has been sentenced.

Esosa Eguakun boarded a bus at Chichester Bus Station on October 12, 2021, and despite the bus being almost empty, sat directly behind a woman in her 20s.

Police said his actions made the woman feel “uncomfortable and threatened”.

As the journey continued, Eguakun put his hands through the back of the seat and repeatedly touched the woman’s bottom.

She attempted to get off the bus at the next stop but, but after noticing the 27-year-old was following her, she alerted the bus driver who then called the police.

Officers arrived and arrested Eguakun in Chichester Road, Bognor.

He initially denied the offence during an interview, but later confessed to sexual assault, and was subsequently charged.

Eguakun, of Stockbridge Road, Chichester, pleaded guilty and was placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for five years.

He was ordered to complete a 30-day rehabilitation programme, 200 hours of unpaid work and pay compensation to the victim.

Detective Sergeant Rebecca Hopkins said: “This was an extremely distressing experience for a young woman who was simply trying to make her way home.

“I would like to thank her for reporting the incident, allowing our officers to swiftly arrest a suspect, and supporting our investigation to help bring Esosa Eguakun to justice.

“I also commend responding and investigating officers for their thorough initial investigation, proactive arrest and a rigorous interview process that ultimately resulted in a confession.

“Women and girls should not have to worry about being sexually harassed and assaulted while going about the most routine, daily activities.

“As a force we remain committed to preventing violence against women and girls, catching perpetrators and giving victims the support and justice they deserve.”