Piotr Mista, 37, from Massingham Road in Castle Acre, Norfolk, targeted a lone woman in her own home, leading to his conviction for sexual assault at Lynn Magistrates' Court. The incident unfolded when Mista approached the victim's home claiming he was searching for his missing kitten and asked to check her garden. After gaining entry, they engaged in conversation, and Mista requested a coffee, which the woman prepared in her kitchen.
While she was making the drink, Mista entered the kitchen and pushed his body against hers, an act described in court as unwanted physical contact. He then sat on her sofa and made explicit sexual remarks, declaring that he wanted to have sex with her and complimenting her as a 'proper woman' unlike his wife. When prompted to leave, claiming she needed to make dinner, Mista attempted to kiss her on the cheek and stated he was going home to perform a sexual act while thinking of her. These actions left the victim feeling uncomfortable and violated in her own home.
Mista, who has a prior conviction for sexual assault in 2018, initially denied the allegation but was found guilty following a trial. Appearing unrepresented at Lynn Magistrates' Court on Thursday, 7 November 2024, he expressed remorse, stating, 'This incident has destroyed my whole life. I ask you for another chance. This is not who I am.' He also mentioned plans to move away from the area with his family to avoid further contact with the victim, adding, 'I need to take care of my family.'
The bench considered a victim impact statement from the woman, which was not read aloud. The chair of the bench remarked, 'This case is a serious assault on a lone woman in her own home, which has had an impact on her since.' Despite the severity, Mista avoided immediate custody and was sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment, suspended for 18 months. He was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work, 15 rehabilitation activity days, pay £250 compensation to the victim, £650 in court costs, and a £187 victim surcharge. A two-year restraining order was imposed, prohibiting contact with the victim. Mista requested to pay a fine instead of performing unpaid work, but this was declined by the bench.
The case was reported by the Lynn News, highlighting ongoing concerns about sexual offences in domestic settings. Norfolk Police handled the prosecution, underscoring the force's commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals from such assaults.