A factory worker who sexually assaulted a woman outside a McDonald’s for almost 20 minutes has avoided jail.

Conner Barnes, from Dover, was on a night out in his hometown when he groped his victim at the fast food restaurant in Sandwich Road, Whitfield.

Canterbury Crown Court heard Barnes had been socialising and drinking with the woman, but towards the end of the night, while he was drunk and high, he took advantage of her vulnerable state.

Prosecuting the case on Thursday, Alexa Le Moine said the attack left the victim feeling sad and worthless.

“The incident involved the touching of the naked breast, for approximately 18 minutes” said Ms Le Moine.

“Whilst it was suspected that the victim’s drink had been spiked, this could not be proved.

“By the defendant’s own admittance, he was under the influence of alcohol and cocaine at the time of the offence.

“When the victim found out what had happened she was in disbelief and now feels very vulnerable.

“The incident has made her feel as though she is in a deep pit of sadness, with feelings of worthlessness.”

Barnes, 23, had pleaded guilty to sexual assault at a previous hearing at magistrates’ court.

Defending, Phil Rowley said Barnes, of Manor Road, was deeply regretful of his actions.

“This is a young man,” he began.

“He describes himself as extremely remorseful - he says he’s disgusted and ashamed of himself.

“Mr Barnes has clearly been very open about the unhealthy role that drink has played in his life, but also his intention to address that.”

Handing down Barnes’ sentence, Judge Simon Taylor spoke directly to the defendant.

“On the 20th of August, 2022, [the victim in this case] went out for a night of socialising. She was drinking, as is her right,” he said.

“You too had drank an excessive amount and had also consumed drugs.

“Towards the end of the evening, you spent some time in the company of [the victim] and you sexually assaulted her - she was vulnerable because of her state.

“You were clearly very drunk at the time, but that is no excuse - if you drink it is your responsibility to make sure you keep in control of your actions.

“I can see from your demeanour in court that you are regretful. You were 21 at the time of the offence - at an age when men are still maturing.

“You apologised to the complainant - at least that shows that other side of you. You have a good work record and good character references.

“I do consider this to be an aberration, a one-off disaster in your life as well as in the victim’s.”

Barnes was given an eight-month custodial sentence, suspended for 16 months.

He must complete 250 hours of unpaid work and attend 30 rehabilitation sessions.

Judge Taylor also ordered him to pay £1,000 in compensation to the victim and another £1,000 in prosecution costs.

Barnes will be subject to a sexual offence notification requirement for 10 years.