ROBERT HAWKINS SENTENCED FOR RAPE IN READING AND TILEHURST

In a case that highlights the long-lasting impact of sexual abuse, Robert Hawkins, a 51-year-old man from Whitley, Reading, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for the heinous crime of raping a 13-year-old girl. The incident took place in Tilehurst, where the victim was staying at the time. The court heard that Hawkins had a prior conviction for rape, which underscores the severity of his criminal history.

The young girl, who was under the influence of alcohol during the assault, kept her ordeal hidden for over a decade. It was only after she was called for jury service at Reading Crown Court last year that she was profoundly affected by the case she was observing. The emotional toll of witnessing another child abuse trial prompted her to find the courage to come forward and report her own experience to the police the very next day.

Hawkins vehemently denied the allegations, asserting his innocence throughout the trial. However, the evidence presented in court led to his conviction in September. The court was told that Hawkins had raped the girl in a bedroom of a house in Tilehurst, where she was staying at the time. The court also heard that the girl lost consciousness during the attack, which added to the trauma she endured.

During sentencing, Judge Nicholas Wood emphasized the profound and lasting effects of Hawkins' actions on the victim. He described the girl’s first sexual experience as a traumatic event that drastically altered her life. The judge noted that following the assault, the girl’s behavior changed significantly; she experienced nightmares, engaged in self-harm, and struggled with substance abuse. Her interactions with social services became strained, and she faced ongoing emotional difficulties.

In a statement, Katie Russell from Rape Crisis England and Wales highlighted the underreporting of sexual violence, noting that only about one in seven women who experience such crimes report them to the authorities. She explained that many victims fear disbelief, judgment, blame, or retaliation from their perpetrators. Russell also pointed out that the perception of low conviction rates and poor treatment within the justice system can discourage victims from coming forward.

Hawkins, having served half of his sentence, will be released on licence and will remain on the sex offenders register for life, reflecting the seriousness of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.