News / Crime
Former Bristol gym owner jailed for assault
A former gym owner from Bristol has been sentenced to two years and nine months in prison after sexually assaulting a woman.
Marcus Wooldridge, 36, of Southmead, was found guilty of one count of sexual assault following a trial at Bristol Crown Court.
Investigating officer, Det Con Rachel Alford, said: “The victim contacted the police in 2014 after Wooldridge had sexually assaulted her at the gym under the guise of helping her with stretching exercises and treatment.”
“Wooldridge claimed to be a trained physiotherapist and registered nurse which gave him the opportunity to physically examine the victim within the gym environment.
“The truth is he has no formal qualifications as a physiotherapist or personal trainer and these claims were merely a smokescreen for his real intentions – to commit a sexual assault.
“During his career, Wooldridge has worked at various gyms in the Bristol area and we believe there may be more victims out there, who haven’t yet come forward.
“This victim has shown tremendous courage in talking to us about her experiences and I hope this conviction will encourage other victims to report offences to us.”
After the sentencing, the victim, who is now 20 years old, said: “I’m so relieved this is over and I want to warn people that these types of crimes can happen to anyone.
“In my view it’s worth speaking out about and I hope this conviction gives other victims the courage to report offences to the police.”