LONDON — A transgender woman has been convicted of sexually assaulting a male partner after failing to disclose her gender identity, which affected his ability to consent. Ciara Watkin, 21, met the man, also 21, on Snapchat in June 2022. Prosecutors stated that Watkin did not inform him of her transgender status before engaging in sexual acts.

According to the Crown Prosecution Service, Watkin initially told the man she was on her period, which prevented him from touching her below the waist. After their first encounter, she blocked all communication with him. Later, she reached out again and revealed through text messages that she was transgender and had male genitalia.

Senior Crown Prosecutor Sarah Nelson emphasized the lack of communication from Watkin regarding her gender status. "It is clear from the evidence in this case that, prior to engaging in sexual activity with the victim, Watkin had made no attempt to inform him of her transgender status," Nelson said.

The victim stated in a police interview that he would not have consented to sexual activity had he known Watkin was transgender. He reported that the incident significantly impacted his mental wellbeing.

Watkin, who is from Stockton-on-Tees in northeast England, admitted to lying about her gender status. However, her defense argued that it should have been obvious to the man that she was not biologically female.

Following a trial at Teesside Crown Court, Watkin was found guilty of two counts of sexual assault and one count of assault by penetration. She is scheduled to be sentenced on October 10.