Pre-reg is cleared of indecent assault

A pre-reg optometrist accused of inappropriately 'touching' a 14-year-old girl during an eye examination at Boots Opticians in Harlow, has been cleared of indecent assault.

Harbhajan Singh, 24, of Southall, London, who appeared before Chelmsford Magistrates Court last week had pleaded not guilty to the offence prior to the hearing.

At the hearing, Stephanie Farrimond, prosecuting, said the alleged incident took place on October 3 2006 when Singh performed an eye test. The teenager alleged that he had pulled up her skirt and touched her thigh and lifted her blouse.

The court heard that Singh then told the girl he had some bad news and that she would have to wear glasses. He returned to the reception with her and proceeded to discuss frame options her mother.