Known Offender Receives Prison Sentence for Multiple Upskirting Offences in Soho
A man has been sentenced to prison after being convicted of upskirting over twenty individuals in the Soho district of London. James Manchand was apprehended by police officers while walking alongside queues outside busy West End venues on Friday, January 16.
Police Intervention and Discovery of Evidence
Law enforcement initially suspected Manchand of planning theft when they observed him loitering near groups of young women. Upon searching him, officers discovered he was a known offender with an active Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) related to a previous voyeurism conviction.
The terms of his SHPO required him to surrender his phone and unlock it for inspection. Police examination revealed twenty-nine video clips featuring more than twenty victims filmed that same evening. Manchand was immediately arrested on Tottenham Court Road.
Charges and Court Proceedings
On January 17, Manchand was formally charged with recording images under clothing to observe another person without consent concerning the Soho incidents. Additionally, he faced two counts of breaching his Sexual Harm Prevention Order from December 10, 2025.
The 62-year-old Camden resident appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Friday, April 10, where he was sentenced to twenty months imprisonment following trial. The court also ordered the forfeiture of his laptop and mobile phone as part of the sentencing. Manchand received additional penalties for his December breach of the SHPO.
Police Statement on Predatory Behavior
Detective Constable Sam Pearson commented on the case, stating: “Manchand’s predatory behavior was calculated, persistent and demonstrated complete disregard for the women he targeted. Thanks to the vigilance and quick instincts of officers on patrol, we were able to intervene before he could continue offending and recover clear evidence that he had committed multiple voyeurism offences in a single evening.”
Pearson further emphasized: “No one should have to worry about being violated in this manner while simply enjoying a night out. We will continue to act swiftly and decisively against anyone who poses a threat to women and girls in our community.”
The case highlights ongoing police efforts to combat voyeurism and protect public safety in London's entertainment districts. Authorities encourage anyone who experiences or witnesses similar incidents to report them immediately to law enforcement.
