Kenneth Watson, a man who raped a woman on a rural path near Great Plumstead in broad daylight, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison.
Kenneth Watson, aged 53, from Lowestoft, was sentenced today (26 November 2024) at Norwich Crown Court after being convicted guilty of rape, intentional strangulation, and threats to kill after a trial at the same court earlier this year.
The trial revealed that on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, Kenneth Watson assaulted his victim while they were walking together on Smee Lane. He sexually assaulted her, constricted her neck to impede her breathing, and threatened to murder her.
The victim successfully notified two dog walkers and sought their assistance. The dog walkers notified the police, who subsequently apprehended Kenneth Watson in close proximity shortly thereafter.
Kenneth Watson was condemned today to 12 years of imprisonment, followed by three years on extended licence. He was additionally registered on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
In an impact statement read at today’s hearing, his victim said: “This incident has completely broken me. I’ve had to reach out and accept support from many services, which I find hard to do. But all I can do is put my head down and carry on until hopefully one day, it will somehow feel better.”
Detective Constable Helen Walters, who led the investigation, said: “Kenneth Watson is a dangerous individual who took advantage of someone who should have been able to trust him.
“I commend the victim, who has shown incredible strength and courage throughout the trial. No sentence will take away the harm Watson has caused her, but I truly hope the verdict on this case is the start of the healing process for her. I would also like to thank the witnesses for their bravery and actions on the day of the incident.
“Today’s sentence should reassure victims of sexual violence that we do take it seriously. We will always pursue justice to the best of our ability, not just for the victim but also for the safety and protection of the wider public.”
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