A man has been convicted following a series of indecent exposure incidents in Theale, in a case investigated by British Transport Police (BTP).

Stephen Benyon, 49, of Sandy Lane, Caldicot, appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Friday 24 October, where he admitted to three counts of indecent exposure and one public order offence. He is scheduled to be sentenced at the same court on Wednesday 17 December.

The first reported incident took place at approximately 10.10pm on 16 April 2024. A 40-year-old woman was crossing an overbridge near Theale railway station when Benyon exposed himself and masturbated while looking at her. A second report followed on 19 September 2024, when another woman at Theale station was subjected to similar behaviour.

BTP detectives launched a detailed investigation, including plain clothes patrols, CCTV review, and witness interviews. After the September 2024 incident, a CCTV appeal was issued in the media. Several individuals came forward but were cleared from the inquiry, and the case was temporarily closed pending further opportunities.

Incidents continued into 2025. On 28 August, a 16-year-old girl at Theale station was approached by Benyon, who again exposed himself and masturbated. On 30 September, the same victim from September 2024 reported encountering him again, during which he made comments that caused her distress.

A renewed investigation ensued, with detectives carrying out witness and CCTV enquiries, nightly plain clothes patrols, and visits to local pubs where staff and patrons were shown the suspect’s image. Benyon was eventually identified by pub staff on Church Street, leading to his arrest on 22 October while he was in the beer garden.

Detective Sergeant Antonio Civitillo said: “The victims were going about their business as usual when Benyon targeted them for his own perverted sexual gratification - causing them considerable shock and distress. We're very grateful that they came forward to report these incidents and have been incredibly supportive of our enquiries to apprehend him. I'd also like to thank the pub staff who alerted us so quickly when they spotted him. Sexual offences on the railway network will never be tolerated and we will always do everything we can to bring offenders to justice. Our enquiries are ongoing. We believe it is possible there could be more victims who Benyon may have exposed himself to and urge anyone who may have been a victim to text BTP on 61016, using the reference Op Brennabor.”

Anyone with information can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Image: British Transport Police