IPSWICH care worker Ashokkumar Nathwani is today starting an 18-month jail sentence after fondling a woman with learning difficulties.Nathwani, 49, took the woman, who is in her 20s, to Ipswich Docks in his car.

IPSWICH care worker Ashokkumar Nathwani is today starting an 18-month jail sentence after fondling a woman with learning difficulties.

Nathwani, 49, took the woman, who is in her 20s, to Ipswich Docks in his car.

He told her she was "gorgeous" and gave her alcohol to drink. He then fondled the woman over her bra and trouser leg and kissed her.

The former arthritis care worker – who looked after elderly and disabled people – pleaded not guilty to indecently assaulting the woman who has the mental age of a child.

The jury at Ipswich Crown Court found Nathwani guilty of indecent assault after a trial in which the vulnerable woman was forced to give evidence.

Stephen Rose, prosecuting, said Nathwani, who now works at Dickens News Shop and part time for the Royal Mail, accepted that when he was alone with the woman she was in her care.

Mr Rose said: "He maintained his innocence but understands the court is bound by the jury's verdict."

Jeremy Dougdale mitigating said Nathwani, of Foxhall Road, has had psychiatric tests which revealed the former English student has learning difficulties of his own.

He said: "She gave him a note saying she was attracted to him and he had kissed her but with her consent."

The court heard that the woman had lied to police that Nathwani had taken her in his car as touched her against her wishes.

In court she said she had wanted to be with him but added that he had touched her and kissed her. Mr Dougdale said: "He was found guilty because the jury felt he should have been aware that she would not have been able to give her consent because of her special needs. I say she did give her consent but in law she could not."

Nathwani maintained he had not done anything wrong as he was led from the court in handcuffs.