CHEWE CHITALU SENTENCED TO 13 YEARS FOR RAPE IN PRESTON

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Preston, Chewe Chitalu, a 32-year-old man residing on Mountbatten Close, was convicted of heinous sexual offenses committed against a young woman during a night out in the city. The incident, which took place in August 2022, has left a lasting impact on the victim and has prompted a thorough investigation by local authorities.

According to reports, the victim was enjoying an evening out in Preston when she was approached and subsequently walked to Chitalu’s van. It was there that she was subjected to a sexual assault, an act that would later be revealed to be part of a series of violations. The victim’s ordeal did not end there; she later awoke in Chitalu’s bedroom, where he continued to assault her, raping her in a deeply traumatic experience that she would carry with her.

Following the report of the incident, law enforcement agencies launched an extensive investigation. Chitalu was swiftly arrested on suspicion of multiple serious charges, including rape, assault by penetration, and sexual assault. His arrest led to a trial where the evidence against him was thoroughly examined. The court found him guilty of the charges, and he was subsequently sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 13 years. Additionally, Chitalu was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

During the sentencing, the victim provided a heartfelt victim impact statement. She expressed the profound emotional toll the assault had taken on her, stating, “My love for life has completely disappeared since the incident and moving on from this terrible thing that has happened to me has proven to be extremely hard and frustrating. The way I live my life has changed so much since this happened but I am hopeful the ending of this trial will offer me some sort of closure so I can begin to move on with my life.”

She further described her previous carefree lifestyle, saying, “Before the incident I had a carefree life, just like any young girl, I would go out with my friends and enjoy my time. I felt safe walking down the street and I never thought that I could be a victim of rape. However, since it happened, I cannot live normally anymore. I never go out with my friends, because I constantly think that it could happen again, that another man that I don’t know could take advantage of me when I am in a vulnerable state.”

Detective Sergeant Laura Lawson, of the South Rape and Serious Sexual Offences team, commented on the case, praising the victim’s bravery. She said, “The judge commended the victim for her bravery and strength shown throughout this process, and I can only echo his sentiments. The victim didn’t consent. Chitalu took advantage of her vulnerability, and raped and sexually assaulted her for his own gratification. He is a despicable man, and I hope that the knowledge that he is behind bars will offer the victim some sense of closure.”

Law enforcement urges anyone who has been a victim of sexual offences to come forward. “If you have been a victim of any sexual offence, please get in touch. We will listen to you, we will investigate thoroughly, and we will do all we can to get you justice,” added DS Lawson, emphasizing the department’s commitment to supporting victims and ensuring justice is served.