VICTIM OF SEXUAL ASSAULT URGES OTHER WOMEN TO COME FORWARD
A woman has publicly encouraged victims of sexual assault to come forward and seek assistance after witnessing her brother being sentenced for raping her two decades ago.Andrew McQueen, aged 30 and residing on Thomas Street in Cirencester, previously admitted to nine historic sexual offences involving his sister Charlotte at a court hearing earlier this year.
The sentencing took place at Gloucester Crown Court after an investigation carried out by Gloucestershire Constabulary’s Criminal Investigation Department.
Charlotte McQueen, who has chosen not to remain anonymous, is now urging others who have experienced similar abuse to speak out.
Following the sentencing, 28-year-old Charlotte expressed her feelings: "As a victim, I never chose for this to happen or for him to behave like that." "It’s caused me a lot of shame and guilt, but those feelings are not mine to bear." "I allowed him to control my life for nearly 19 years." The sexual abuse took place when McQueen was between 11 and 15 years old.
The court was informed that Charlotte reached out to police in February 2025 after her brother sent her messages seeking forgiveness for his past actions.
As their conversation continued, he began issuing threatening messages directed at her and her children.
Charlotte then disclosed to authorities that her brother had raped her multiple times when she was between nine and 13.
Following her disclosures, Andrew was arrested; he admitted to sending the texts and to the abuse when they were children.
He explained to police that alcohol was involved during the times he sent these messages and that he had mental health struggles.
Charlotte recounted in court: "Andrew, my big brother, was supposed to protect me.
Instead, I spent four years fearing sexual and physical violence from him." "He took my innocence, harmed my mental health, and stole my happiness.
Because of his actions, I've endured ten years of mental health battles." "He robbed me of my childhood.
The memories of happy moments are now clouded by pain and anguish caused by him.
When I see family photos, I am reminded of the fear and suffering." "He made me believe it was my fault, which led to silence and self-harm.
He punished me for any success or trouble I encountered." "Although the abuse happened years ago, his refusal to forgive and forget kept it alive.
He often used it as a point of leverage, constantly reminding me." "I kept it hidden, never revealing the details until I spoke to police." "His threats against my family made me realize I couldn’t let him control or intimidate me or my children anymore," she added.
On June 13, Andrew McQueen received a five-year prison sentence and will serve a minimum of two years and eight months before being eligible for release.
After sentencing, Detective Constable Sarah Riordan, who led the investigation, commented: "This case has been particularly challenging, and I commend Charlotte for her bravery in confronting her brother for the abuse she endured so many years ago." "The trauma inflicted on her has persisted throughout her life, but her resilience and determination to seek justice are admirable." "I hope she finds peace and closure following her ordeal." She also emphasized that reporting sexual assault can happen at any time: "It’s never too late to come forward.
Victims will always be believed, and we will do everything possible to investigate and prosecute offenders." Charlotte shared that coming forward helped her begin healing and credits her supportive family, police officers, and the judge for aiding her journey.
She stated: "Andrew was convinced no one would believe me, and he thought he could take my siblings away from me." "I want others in similar situations to know they are believed, and things will get better." "Nobody questioned my truth.
Although it will be tough mentally, the support you receive makes it manageable." "Now, I feel free to live openly and seek help without keeping this secret hidden."
