CURTIS HENDRICKSON SENTENCED TO LIFE IN ERDINGTON FOR BRUTAL SEXUAL ASSAULTS AND VIOLENCE

A man from Erdington, identified as Curtis Hendrickson, has been handed a life sentence after a series of heinous sexual assaults and violent attacks that terrorized vulnerable women in the area. The sentencing took place at Stafford Crown Court on Friday, March 22, following Hendrickson's conviction in September 2023 on 11 counts of rape and an additional charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm involving two separate victims.

Hendrickson, aged 34, was found guilty of a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior that unfolded over a few weeks in late 2022. His crimes targeted women who were particularly vulnerable, many of whom were facing homelessness or housing difficulties at the time. The nature of his offenses was both brutal and calculated, leaving a lasting impact on the victims and the community alike.

One of the victims recounted her harrowing experience at a fast food restaurant, where she attempted to signal for help. Hendrickson threatened her with a knife, coercing her into submission. Despite her efforts to report the incident afterward, Hendrickson had already fled the scene, making it difficult for authorities to apprehend him immediately.

Another woman’s ordeal occurred on Christmas Day, when she sought refuge at a petrol station. She was found wrapped only in a shower curtain and was visibly injured. She later disclosed to police that Hendrickson had subjected her to a brutal beating with a broomstick, which was so forceful that it snapped during the assault. The police described the attack as vicious and unprovoked, highlighting the severity of Hendrickson’s violence.

Hendrickson’s arrest was made after the second victim contacted law enforcement on Christmas Day. Initially, he denied any wrongdoing, claiming that his interactions with the women were consensual and pleading not guilty. However, during his trial, he changed his plea to guilty, acknowledging the gravity of his actions. In addition to the sexual assault charges, Hendrickson was convicted of failing to comply with the requirements of the sex offenders register.

Detective Robert Mackinnon expressed his condemnation of Hendrickson’s actions, stating, “Hendrickson is a brutal rapist who showed total disregard for the two vulnerable women he targeted. He raped them both multiple times and assaulted one so viciously that the broom handle broke when he beat her.”

The court’s decision to impose a life sentence with a minimum of 20 years reflects the seriousness of Hendrickson’s crimes and ensures he will spend a significant period contemplating the harm he caused. The police praised the bravery of the victims for coming forward and assisting in securing his conviction, emphasizing the importance of reporting such offenses to protect others and uphold justice.