ALEX STEPHEN COLEMAN, SERIAL RAPIST FROM NORTHAMPTON, CONVICTED OF 18 SEXUAL OFFENCES

A man identified as Alex Stephen Coleman, aged 34 and residing on Redruth Close in Northampton, has been found guilty of a series of serious sexual offences committed over a span of several years. The conviction follows a comprehensive investigation by Northamptonshire Police under Operation Antigua, which targeted sexual abuse cases in the Northampton area.

Between 2006 and 2016, reports emerged of disturbing sexual misconduct involving teenage girls who frequently gathered at the Cobbler's Last statue in Northampton. These reports detailed instances of sexual abuse and rape, prompting a lengthy and detailed investigation by law enforcement authorities. The case against Coleman was one of the most significant in the operation, which had already resulted in multiple convictions of other offenders involved in similar crimes.

During the trial at Northampton Crown Court, which lasted 13 days, the jury deliberated for 11 hours before reaching a verdict. Coleman was convicted on multiple counts, including three charges of rape, six counts of sexual activity with a minor, seven counts of sexual assault, and two counts of assault by penetration. He was acquitted of one additional count of rape. The offences for which he was convicted spanned from April 2008 to March 2011, during which time the victims, five girls aged between 13 and 17, were subjected to his abuse. At the time of the offences, Coleman was between 18 and 21 years old.

Detective Sergeant Colin Bowers, who led the investigation, expressed his support for the victims and praised their bravery in coming forward. He stated, “Nothing will ever take away what happened to these women but I hope they can feel proud that, by speaking up, they have ensured that Alex Stephen Coleman – a serial rapist and sexual abuser – will be going to prison for a long time.”

Law enforcement officials emphasized that while several offenders have already been convicted and imprisoned as part of Operation Antigua, Coleman's case stands out as one of the most significant. Northamptonshire Police reaffirmed their commitment to tackling violence against women and girls, highlighting their ongoing efforts to investigate sexual crimes, bring perpetrators to justice, and support survivors.

Coleman is scheduled to be sentenced at Northampton Crown Court on 29 November. The case underscores the importance of community vigilance and the courage of victims in seeking justice against those who commit such heinous acts.