ASHLEY BARTON OF HAMMERSMITH SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS FOR RAPE AND ABUSE IN LONDON

In a case that has shocked the local community of Hammersmith, Ashley James Barton, aged 37, has been handed a substantial prison sentence of 12 years following his conviction for serious sexual offenses and assault. The court proceedings, held at Isleworth Crown Court, revealed a disturbing pattern of violence and manipulation inflicted upon a woman in the Hammersmith area.

According to court records, Barton’s crimes took place over a span of several months, with the most egregious acts occurring in December 2020 and February 2021. The victim, whose identity remains protected, recounted her harrowing experience during a heartfelt statement delivered in court, expressing her fear for her life and the lasting trauma caused by Barton’s actions.

In December 2020, Barton assaulted the woman without any apparent provocation, punching her in the face and leaving her with a black eye. The assault was brutal and unexpected, leaving the victim physically injured and emotionally distressed. The court heard that this incident was followed by a more severe violation in February 2021, when Barton raped her, an act that has left a lasting scar on her mental health.

Throughout the trial, Barton displayed a troubling lack of remorse. On multiple occasions, he insisted on portraying himself as the victim, claiming that the allegations against him were fabrications. He went so far as to suggest that the woman was the real abuser in their relationship, a defense that the jury ultimately rejected after careful deliberation.

Initially, Barton faced trial in November 2021, but the jury was unable to reach a verdict on the rape charges at that time. He was convicted only of assault by beating. However, following a retrial in May of this year, the court found him guilty of the rape charges as well as the assault.

During sentencing, Judge His Honour Justice Duncan delivered a stern condemnation of Barton’s conduct. The judge emphasized that Barton showed no regard for the pain he caused, describing his behavior as manipulative and misogynistic. The judge stated, “You did not care how much you were hurting her. You have always maintained an account that she was lying and unstable. You portray yourself as a knight in shining armor but with the complainant you did your best to undermine her at every opportunity.”

He further added, “You gas-lighted and insulted her, leaving her self-confidence in ruins. Your pattern of behavior is deeply disturbing, and your lack of acceptance of responsibility raises serious concerns about your future conduct. There is a significant risk of you committing further offenses against women.”

As part of his sentence, Barton was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which requires him to inform the police of any future intimate relationships. This order has no expiration date. Additionally, he was placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities to protect the community from further harm.