JOSEPH MCKEOWN FROM HEWORTH SENTENCED FOR RAPE IN YORK

In September 2019, a young scientist from Heworth, Joseph McKeown, was sentenced to prison after being found guilty of serious sexual offenses. McKeown, aged 23, was on the cusp of beginning a PhD program at the University of York, a step that would have marked a significant milestone in his academic career. However, instead of advancing his studies, he was handed a lengthy prison sentence following his conviction for raping and sexually assaulting a woman.

During the court proceedings at York Crown Court, it was revealed that McKeown was a biophysicist with a remarkable academic record. He had achieved a first-class degree with distinction, and his potential was recognized by many in the academic community. His barrister, Julian Goode, presented references from esteemed York academics holding doctorates, emphasizing that these professionals supported McKeown’s return to academic life after serving his sentence. Nonetheless, the court made it clear that the decision to reintegrate him into the academic environment was not within their jurisdiction.

The court heard that McKeown’s actions were persistent and that the victim had clearly expressed her unwillingness on multiple occasions. Despite her protests, he continued his assault, which caused her significant emotional trauma. The victim, in a personal statement read to the court, described her ongoing pain and anger, stating, “Both the pain and anger that I felt then, I feel now, but more intensely. They are not subsiding and I feel almost powerless.” Her words underscored the profound impact of the assault on her mental health and well-being.

Judge Simon Hickey sentenced McKeown to five and a half years in prison. Additionally, he ordered that McKeown be placed on the sex offenders’ register for life, prohibiting him from working with vulnerable individuals in the future. The judge also issued a lifelong ban on any contact with the victim, emphasizing the severity of the crime and the need to protect others from potential harm.

Joseph McKeown, of Hawthorn Street, Heworth, pleaded guilty to charges of rape and sexual assault. His conviction marks a tragic end to what could have been a promising academic career, overshadowed by the serious nature of his crimes. The case highlights the devastating consequences of sexual violence and the importance of justice for victims.