An Exeter University student faces jail after assaulting a “terrified” woman walking alone on the street.
Vadim Edseev, 19, was seen on CCTV stalking the victim before going up to her and putting a hand between her legs, in an attack known as “sharking”. The Russian student admitted assault by penetration at Exeter Crown Court last week.
The sentence has been adjourned until next month by Judge Graham Cottle, who has also ordered a presentence report. Edseev was granted a curfew in order to complete his second year exams at Exeter University’s business school.
Judge Cottle told him: “The complainant was a woman on her own walking through the city centre at night. She must have been terrified.
“I am adjourning sentence to allow you to sit your exams and for a presentence report, which will also find out the attitude of the university to you pleading guilty to this very serious offence.
“The fact that I am renewing your bail doesn’t mean you will not receive a custodial sentence. The overwhelming likelihood is that you will for such a serious sexual attack .”
Edseev is said to be anxious to sit his exams before he is sentenced.
Exeter’s FemSoc are calling for the university to release a statement regarding the decision to allow the perpetrator to continue his studies.
The university have yet to respond to Exeposé requests for comment.