A court case heard a man claiming to be “warming his chicken” in a sauna was actually engaging in a lewd act, as reported by Wales Online. Xin Zhang, 59, was spotted with his shorts down and touching himself while staring at a woman through a glass window, claiming he was cold and trying to warm up. He was confronted by staff at Tom Husband Leisure Centre, where he was a frequent visitor, and was subsequently charged with outraging public decency. Zhang pleaded guilty to the charge but denied any sexual intent behind his actions.
The incident took place in March 2023 when Zhang, a member of the leisure centre for over 10 years, was seen engaging in inappropriate behaviour in the sauna. The woman who witnessed the act reported feeling angry and vulnerable, stating that it made her uncomfortable. Zhang defended himself by explaining that he was simply trying to warm up due to feeling cold after swimming. However, the court found inconsistencies in his statements and concluded that his actions were for sexual gratification.
During the court hearing at Bolton Magistrates’ Court, Zhang continued to maintain that he was not masturbating but rather attempting to warm his privates. His defence lawyer argued that while Zhang’s behaviour was unacceptable, there were no sexual undertones involved. Despite his claims, the court decided to order a pre-sentence report and stated that all options, including a prison sentence, were on the table. The sentencing for Zhang is scheduled for June 24th.
The prosecution witnesses provided consistent evidence, highlighting the discrepancies in Zhang’s various accounts of the incident. The court emphasised that Zhang’s actions were not in line with his explanations and determined that the act was indeed for sexual gratification. The magistrates expressed concerns over Zhang’s changing narratives and found his behaviour to be unacceptable within a public setting such as a leisure centre.
Zhang’s actions not only caused discomfort to the woman who witnessed them but also led to his ban from the leisure centre and subsequent legal ramifications. The court’s decision to investigate the matter further prior to sentencing reflects the gravity of the offence. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting boundaries and appropriate behaviour in public spaces, and highlights the legal consequences that can arise from engaging in lewd acts that infringe upon the comfort and safety of others.
The incident involving Xin Zhang underscores the significance of upholding standards of decency and respect in shared environments such as leisure centres. The court’s scrutiny of Zhang’s actions and subsequent legal proceedings illustrate a commitment to ensuring the well-being and comfort of individuals within public facilities. As the case unfolds, it prompts reflection on the appropriate conduct expected in communal spaces and the repercussions that may follow when such norms are disregarded.