BIRMINGHAM LAWYER SENTENCED TO 11 YEARS FOR RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT

A Birmingham-based lawyer named Mark Hodge was sentenced to 11 years in prison following his conviction for multiple sexual offences, including rape and sexual assault, against an 18-year-old woman. The incident occurred in 2013, and forensic evidence presented in court proved his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Hodge, aged 50 and a partner at Stuart Hodge Corporate Lawyers LLP, denied the charges initially but was found guilty by a jury on June 22. During the sentencing in Birmingham Crown Court, Judge Richard Bond stated: "It's always upsetting for the courts to deal with a member of the legal profession in the dock. It simply demonstrates that a man, regardless of his background, can commit such a dreadful offence as rape." The court heard how the victim described feeling "unhappy, sad and isolated" after the ordeal. The court also acknowledged Hodge's support for charitable organizations but emphasized that such personal qualities do not negate his guilt. The sentencing was welcomed by Det Chief Insp Tom Chisholm of West Midlands Police, who commended the victim's bravery and emphasized that sexual crimes can have long-lasting effects. He assured the public that police remain committed to pursuing offenders regardless of the time elapsed and encourages victims to come forward.