JAMES HAGGERTY SENTENCED IN SALISBURY FOR NON-RECENT RAPE CASE

A man from Salisbury, James Haggerty, has been handed a seven-year prison sentence after being convicted of a sexual assault that occurred several years ago. The sentencing took place on June 20 at Salisbury Crown Court, bringing closure to a case that spanned over a decade.

According to court records, the incident dates back to September 12, 2013, when Haggerty, then 30 years old and residing at North View, Berwick St James, encountered his victim following a night out. The victim, whose identity remains protected, was at a taxi rank when she was approached by Haggerty and a companion. They offered her a ride, which she accepted, and subsequently took her to a private property. It was there that Haggerty committed a sexual assault against her.

The victim endured the trauma in silence for many years, choosing not to report the assault to authorities until 2021. Her decision to come forward was a significant step, and her courage was acknowledged by the court. During the proceedings, a statement from the victim was read aloud, in which she expressed her feelings of disbelief and fear. She stated, "I always thought I would never be believed, and the longer I left it, the more unlikely any chance of getting justice seemed. It took me a long time to find the courage to report to the police and especially as I had found out that you (Haggarty) were on trial previously for a similar offence."

She further added, "Today, I am not the same person I was 11 years ago. I am looking for justice and healing. No sentence can undo what has been done, but it can affirm the severity of the crime, and the strength of survivors." Her words underscored the lasting impact of the assault and her resilience in seeking justice.

Sergeant Matt Goldring, who was involved in the case, commented on the circumstances, stating, "Haggarty met his victim whilst she was in a very vulnerable state and took advantage of her. I would like to thank the victim in this case for her bravery in coming forward and for her unwavering strength throughout this period." The case highlights the importance of perseverance and courage in bringing offenders to justice, even many years after the crime occurred, and underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to support survivors of sexual assault.