A significant legal proceeding unfolded on Thursday at Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court, where Torben Hersborg, a 63-year-old celebrity osteopath, appeared via videolink to face charges of voyeurism. Hersborg, who has worked with notable clients such as tennis star Caroline Wozniacki and actress Anna Friel, pleaded guilty to three counts of observing individuals engaged in a private act for sexual gratification, specifically targeting female university students.
The incidents occurred on December 10, 14, and 21 of the previous year, as detailed by prosecutor Varinder Hayre during the court session. A member of the public reported seeing a suspicious vehicle parked near university halls, noting that a person was in the car, which was concealed by a balaclava and attempting to photograph students. The witness recounted having spotted the same vehicle over a span of several weeks, expressing concerns about its occupants who would respond by 'ducking' or hiding when approached.
Police were eventually alerted to Hersborg's activities on December 21, when they found him in the backseat of his parked Lexus, wearing black gloves with plastic bags lining the seats. When questioned by the authorities about his presence, Hersborg claimed to have been drinking 'two glasses of Danish Christmas wine' after a session of judo training in Chelsea. He stated that he had merely stopped to relax.
However, officers located a camera and telescope in his vehicle, which contained 68 videos and photographs. According to Hayre's account, only three of these were viewed by police, revealing disturbing content that included images of women in various states of undress within their accommodations. The complexities of the case were compounded when investigators later searched Hersborg's home, seizing an extensive array of digital devices.
In court, Hersborg's defence counsel, Adrian Eissa KC, argued that the alleged crimes were committed within a brief period and posed an additional request for the judge to release him. The prosecution countered that the severity of the offence, particularly the invasion of privacy into the lives of vulnerable young females, warranted significant concern. Judge Lorraine McDonagh expressed her apprehension regarding the violations, considering that they took place within the confines of a residence intended for students.
The judge highlighted the troubling nature of the case, stating, “These victims were quite clearly recorded in their own homes,” while also noting that Hersborg had reportedly engaged in such behaviour for an extended duration. Given these factors, she declined jurisdiction at the magistrates’ court level and transferred the case to Snaresbrook Crown Court for sentencing.
Hersborg will remain in custody until his next court appearance, with the specific date yet to be determined as investigations into additional potential charges continue.
Source: Noah Wire Services