West End theatre photographer who sexually assaulted woman during shoot found guilty

A West End theatre photographer has been found guilty after sexual assaulting a 22-year-old woman during a £400 ‘modelling shoot’.

Pascal Molliere, 55, of Enterprise Way, Wandsworth, kissed the victim and touched her sexually during a photoshoot at his studio in Fulham in July 2010.

The victim, who was an aspiring actress, had reached out to Molliere through a website for actors to employ him to take headshots of her.

He suggested over the phone that she bring lingerie, saying that it would be good for her portfolio.

During the photoshoot, Molliere, who also goes by Pascal Gerrard, locked the door to the studio.

He became increasingly tactile before assaulting her.

The victim, knowing that the door to the studio was locked and feeling that Molliere was potentially capable of harming her, completed the photoshoot in order to avoid confrontation.

Following the shoot, the victim immediately called her boyfriend to tell him what had happened. 

He contacted Molliere to ask for an explanation, who refunded the £400 fee for the shoot.

Inspired by the Me Too movement, the victim reported the assault to the police in 2019.

Police have praised her for coming forward.

DC David Roberts, from the Met’s Public Protection Unit, Central West BCU, said: “First and foremost, I would like to commend the survivor of this attack for her incredible bravery and courage. 

“We know that reliving the trauma of incidents like this is horrific for survivors, and the composure she maintained throughout this trial has astounded myself and my team. 

He added: “Our primary concern is that there may be more young women who have been subject to the same treatment by Molliere – who now goes by Pascal Gerrard. 

“It is essential that, if you recognise either of these names and think that you may have been affected in a similar way, you let us know.

“We want everyone to understand that if you do not feel comfortable talking to police then there are a number of ways that you can report sexual assault, or any other crime, completely anonymously. I hope that today’s result demonstrates that the Met will stand with victims of crime.”

Pauline Curtis, from the CPS, said: “The victim trusted Molliere as a professional photographer, however that trust was abused whilst she was in her most vulnerable state.

“During the trial Molliere said that he had behaved professionally throughout the photoshoot and denied the allegations. But after hearing all the evidence in this case, the jury did not believe him.

“Sexual offences are some of the most complex cases that we prosecute. I hope these convictions provide the victim with some closure and encourage other victims of such crimes to come forward and report their attackers.”

Today, Molliere was convicted at Southwark Crown Court of three counts of sexual assault.

He will be sentenced at the same court on April 12.

Pictured top: Pascal Molliere (centre) arrives at Southwark Crown Court (image: PA)