SCOTT ATKINS SENTENCED IN WALLINGFORD FOR RAPE AT LOCAL DISCO

Scott Atkins, an RAF corporal stationed at RAF Benson, has been handed a five-year prison sentence following his conviction for the serious crime of rape. The incident occurred in Wallingford, a town known for its historic charm and vibrant social scene, during a night in January that has now become a focal point of legal proceedings and public concern.

According to court reports, the events unfolded after Atkins, who was then 29 years old, had been drinking at the Dolphin pub in Wallingford. After socializing at the pub, he and a 17-year-old girl, who was also at the disco that night, engaged in conversation and continued drinking together. The jury, which deliberated last month, found Atkins guilty of the charges by a majority of ten to two.

Prosecutor Gareth Branston provided detailed testimony during the trial, describing how Atkins and the young victim had been chatting and drinking at a bar earlier in the evening. Branston emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “This defendant and a 17-year-old girl were chatting and drinking together at a bar. He continued, “The defendant, who is married and significantly older, decided to force himself on her. He grabbed her outside the toilets, dragged her upstairs and there, despite her protestations, he undressed her and began to rape her.”

Atkins, who is an airman and holds the rank of corporal within the Military Provost Guard Service, maintained a different account of the events. He claimed that the encounter was consensual, although he did not disclose the details of the court proceedings to his wife until after his conviction. The court heard that Atkins did not accept the guilt implied by the jury’s verdict, which raised concerns among the judiciary.

Judge Gordon Risius expressed his disapproval of Atkins’ stance, stating, “It’s a matter of concern that although it appears you accept the jury’s verdict, you cannot accept you committed the crime. You need to take responsibility for what you did that night.” The judge’s comments highlighted the seriousness of the case and the importance of accountability.

During the sentencing hearing at Oxford Crown Court last Wednesday, Atkins was sentenced to five years in prison. Defense lawyer Adrian Amer pointed out that Atkins’ pre-sentence report raised questions rather than providing clear answers about his behavior, indicating ongoing concerns about his conduct and character. The case has attracted significant attention in Wallingford and beyond, emphasizing the importance of justice and the protection of vulnerable individuals in the community.