In 2022, a distressing incident occurred in Manchester city centre, where Aaron Wood, aged 21, admitted to sexually assaulting a woman after a night out. The event took place when Wood accompanied the woman into a room where she planned to order food, but she eventually fell asleep.

The victim, whose identity is protected, recounted waking up to the uncomfortable sensation of stubble on her neck and inappropriate contact from Wood. The Manchester Crown Court heard how she felt her playsuit being lifted multiple times, leaving her feeling violated and vulnerable.

Upon confronting Wood the following day, he confessed to the assault through a text message, expressing regret and asking her not to involve the police. Despite his apology, the gravity of his actions led to his arrest in Ellesmere Port.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Wood had been excessively drunk during the incident, which he claimed was out of character. However, the woman expressed the lasting impact on her life, emphasizing her loss of trust and feeling of violation.

Prosecutor Christopher Field described the sequence of events, emphasizing the woman's vulnerability and Wood's continuous inappropriate actions even as she tried to distance herself from him during the night.

Wood received a community order for 12 months, was required to complete 250 hours of unpaid work, and was subjected to five years in the sex offender register. A restraining order was also placed against him, barring contact with the victim for five years.

The judge underscored the seriousness of the offense, highlighting the victim's vulnerability and Wood's breach of trust. The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of such actions and the impact on victims.