Man Sentenced for Train Sexual Assault in Essex

A man has been sentenced to prison after sexually assaulting two women on a train in Essex, highlighting ongoing concerns about public safety on transportation services.

On November 29, 2024, Daniel Odubanjo attacked passengers on a service running from Shenfield to Chelmsford. Authorities confirmed that the victims were aged 17 and 21, though one told Odubanjo she was 14 in an effort to stop the abuse.

The British Transport Police shared a video on January 26 showing officers rushing to stop the train at Hatfield Peverel station and taking Odubanjo into custody.

Earlier this month, January 2026, the 27-year-old from King Avenue, Clapham, south London, was sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court to six years in prison after being found guilty of two counts of sexual assault on a female and false imprisonment.

In addition to his prison term, Odubanjo received a sexual harm prevention order. This order prohibits him from using public transport, train stations, or Network Rail property while under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances.

According to British Transport Police reports:

• Odubanjo repeatedly pounded on a train restroom door and shoved one victim back inside when she opened it.
• He grabbed her wrists and assaulted her while locking the door.
• The second victim, a 21-year-old woman, tried to get help from other passengers, but he dragged her back into the restroom and continued the assault.
• One victim was only allowed to leave the train after falsely claiming to be 14.
• Shortly after, Odubanjo attacked a 17-year-old girl, who was rescued by a neighboring passenger.

Odubanjo was ultimately taken into custody when British Transport Police met the train at Hatfield Peverel.

Detective Sergeant Hayley Whyte stated: “Odubanjo preyed on a young woman and a teenage girl in terrifying attacks just minutes apart. Both were left distressed and traumatised by the vile assaults he subjected them to.” She praised both victims for their courage in exposing his actions.