“No always means no” – This is the clear message conveyed by officers following the imprisonment of a rapist, Martin Lee Hexham rapist, for 15 years.
Martin Lee, a 40-year-old individual formerly residing in Hexham, coerced his victim into engaging in sexual intercourse against her will despite her repeated and fervent requests for him to desist. The courageous individual stepped out the previous year and complained to the authorities over the mistreatment. Lee was subsequently apprehended and formally accused of committing the crime of rape.
Initially, he refuted his culpability. However, on the scheduled day of his trial at Newcastle Crown Court in April, he altered his plea to guilty and confessed to three charges, which encompassed two instances of rape.
Further information: A drug dealer in Newcastle has been imprisoned after a police officer pursued him on his bicycle.
On Friday, July 14, he returned to the same court where a judge imposed a 15-year prison sentence, lifetime registration as a sex offender, and a restraining order prohibiting him from contacting his victim.
The inquiry was overseen by Detective Constable Lynsey Oliver, who is a member of Northumbria Police’s safeguarding section. She stated that Martin Lees misconduct had begun to exhibit a dangerous trend. On multiple occasions, his victim firmly and unequivocally expressed their refusal while displaying discomfort and making efforts to resist him.
“He is a perilous individual, and our locality is undeniably more secure with him incarcerated.” I commend the survivor for promptly notifying the authorities and actively participating in the investigation, trial, and subsequent legal actions. She is responsible for the imprisonment of a predatory male. I earnestly hope that her courage and this statement may inspire others to have the assurance to step forward and communicate with law enforcement.
She stated: “I trust that this sentence functions as a clear and strong caution to individuals who possess an unlawfully distorted perspective on consent, emphasising that the word ‘no’ always signifies refusal.” Suppose an individual expresses refusal, tries to repel you, remains immobile, or exhibits evident anguish. In that case, they have not permitted you to make physical contact with them.
“Consenting to go on a date, allowing someone into one’s home, or being in a relationship with someone does not automatically imply sexual consent. This is true for all scenarios and types of relationships.” Individuals should not be subjected to such a form of attack, and assistance is accessible from our law enforcement personnel and the numerous commendable non-profit organisations with whom we collaborate closely.
“If you have experienced any form of sexual assault, we are available to provide support and assistance.”
Individuals seeking to report an incident of rape or sexual assault can access additional information on Northumbria Police’s website. In the event of an urgent situation, it is imperative to dial 999.
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.