Nottingham Man Jailed for Sexual Assaults on East Midlands Trains
A 64-year-old man from Nottingham has been jailed for six years after sexually assaulting two women on trains in a single day. Clifford Hayes, who has no fixed address, was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court following a British Transport Police (BTP) investigation that uncovered the disturbing nature of his offences.
Hayes, born on 9 October 1960, was also handed a four-year licence extension. This means he must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before becoming eligible for parole.
Two Attacks in One Day
The court heard that the assaults occurred on Monday, 7 October 2024. Hayes first targeted a 27-year-old woman on the 8:44am East Midlands train from Nottingham to Liverpool. After sitting next to her, he placed a coat over his lap, began masturbating, and then sexually assaulted her.
Later that same day, Hayes struck again — this time on the 4:43pm train from Sheffield to Liverpool. Using the same method, he targeted another woman in her twenties, committing a second sexual assault.
Both victims immediately reported the incidents, prompting a swift response from British Transport Police. Investigators used CCTV from the trains and Nottingham Railway Station to identify and arrest Hayes shortly after the offences.
Breach of Court Order
At the time of the attacks, Hayes was subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO)—a legal measure intended to prevent repeat offences by known sex offenders. His actions on 7 October breached the conditions of this order, further reinforcing the danger he posed to the public.
Police Praise Victims’ Courage
Detective Constable Lee Walker of Doncaster CID, who led the investigation, praised the bravery of the women who reported Hayes.
“Hayes’ sentence reflects the danger he poses to women and the seriousness of his actions,” said DC Walker. “Without the courage of the victims coming forward and supporting the investigation, this outcome would not have been possible.”
Public Safety and Reporting
British Transport Police reaffirmed their commitment to making the railway network a safe environment for all passengers.
“We take all reports of sexual offences and unwanted sexual behaviour seriously and will support victims throughout our investigations,” added DC Walker.
Passengers are encouraged to report any inappropriate behaviour by texting 61016 or calling 999 in an emergency.
Hayes’ imprisonment marks another significant step in tackling sexual offences on public transport, with authorities reiterating the importance of vigilance, reporting, and justice for victims.
