A STEP-FATHER has been given a three-year community order after admitting filming his step-daughter in the bath and shower.

Andrew Simpson, of Burford Road, Witney, was yesterday sentenced at Banbury Magistrates’ Court for what was described as a “serious” offence.

His step-daughter Scarlett Seldon, 23, who waived her right to anonymity, discovered a secret camera when she went to take a bath in November 2012.

Simpson, 49, also admitted he had filmed women’s bottoms while out shopping and on holiday in Lanzarote. There was no charge relating to this.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of voyeurism last month.

Speaking after the sentencing yesterday, Miss Seldon said: “The sentence is disappointing really. I feel he has got away lightly with that punishment.”

Defence solicitor Catherine Scammell said Simpson had started the filming during a difficult period in his life. She said: “It occured at a time in his life when he was at an extremely low ebb.

“He had a nervous breakdown so to speak. He had not been able to continue with his job he had held for 25 years which left a huge gap in his life. He had severe depression.”

Chairwoman of the magistrates Dorothy Cantrell said: “This is a serious offence. We did consider custody.”

Simpson was handed a 36-month community order, with requirements to attend the sex offenders’ work programme and a 36-month supervision order. He must also sign the Sex Offenders Register for five years and has a restraining order preventing him from contacting Miss Seldon. He was ordered to pay £85 costs and £60 victims’ surcharge.
 

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