JOSHUA FOSTER FROM WEYMOUTH SENTENCED TO NINE YEARS FOR CHILD RAPE IN WATERLOOVILLE AND WEYMOUTH

In a harrowing case that has shocked the local communities of Weymouth and Waterlooville, Joshua Foster, aged 19, has been handed a substantial prison sentence after being convicted of heinous crimes involving a young girl. The offences, which took place earlier this year, have left a lasting impact on the victim and have drawn significant attention from law enforcement and the judiciary.

Foster, who previously resided in Weymouth on Hereford Road, was found guilty at Dorchester Crown Court of raping a seven-year-old girl and inciting her to perform sexual acts. The incidents occurred in January of this year, and the court heard detailed testimonies during the trial that painted a disturbing picture of the defendant’s actions.

According to the evidence presented, Foster forced the young girl to perform a sexual act on him, an act that she described as a 'secret' and 'gross' during police interviews. The victim, now eight years old, recounted how Foster had coerced her into these acts, using dolls to demonstrate how he had manipulated her during the interview. She tearfully explained, “I didn’t want to do it but he just forced me.”

Further allegations revealed that Foster had exposed himself to the girl during a separate incident, which he then dared her to perform a sex act on him. The girl refused, stating, “He wanted me really badly to do it but I didn’t want to.” These events were part of a series of disturbing encounters that the court found to be proven beyond reasonable doubt.

Foster took the stand in his own defense, denying any sexual activity had occurred. Despite his denial, the jury, composed of seven men and five women, deliberated for over four and a half hours before returning guilty verdicts on both counts. The emotional toll was evident as Foster broke down in tears in the courtroom upon hearing the verdicts.

During the sentencing phase, Foster’s legal representative, Lee Christmas, urged the judge to consider his client’s youth and previously good character. However, Judge Roger Jarvis was unequivocal in his remarks, emphasizing the severity of the crimes. He stated, “The jury has convicted you of one of the most serious offences in the criminal calendar.”

Judge Jarvis further condemned Foster’s actions, describing them as stemming from “your own sexual frustration,” and highlighting the vulnerability of the young girl, who had no understanding of what was happening. The judge remarked that Foster had taken “appalling advantage” of her innocence and that the emotional scars inflicted could last a lifetime.

Concluding his remarks, Judge Jarvis sentenced Foster to nine years in prison for the rape and an additional six years for inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. These sentences are to be served concurrently. Additionally, Foster will be registered on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct post-release.

This case underscores the importance of safeguarding children and the relentless pursuit of justice for victims of sexual abuse. The community of Weymouth and Waterlooville will undoubtedly be affected by the gravity of these crimes, and the legal proceedings serve as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and protection of vulnerable minors.