STEVEN FREITAS SENTENCED IN ABBOTS LANGLEY FOR RAPE AND ASSAULTS IN THREE RIVERS AREA

Steven Freitas, a 34-year-old resident of Broomfield Rise in Abbots Langley, has been handed a significant prison sentence following his conviction on serious criminal charges. The sentencing took place at St Albans Crown Court, where Freitas was sentenced to five years behind bars after being found guilty of one count of rape and two counts of assault by penetration. All of these heinous acts were committed against young victims who were under the age of 13 at the time, with the crimes occurring within the Three Rivers district between 2004 and 2007, according to police reports.

Throughout the trial, Freitas maintained his innocence, denying all charges brought against him. Despite his protests, the court found sufficient evidence to convict him of the crimes. During the proceedings, a victim’s impact statement was read aloud, revealing the emotional toll the crimes had taken. The victim expressed a sense of relief that Freitas would now be incarcerated, which she believed would allow her to begin the process of healing and moving forward with her life. Her mother also spoke during the court session, expressing her satisfaction with the outcome and the justice served.

The police force praised the bravery of the victims for coming forward and reporting the crimes, especially considering the significant time that had passed since the incidents. Detective Nathalie Zappia, who led the investigation, emphasized the importance of encouraging victims to report abuse regardless of how much time has elapsed. She highlighted that justice can still be achieved even years after the crimes occurred, and she commended the victims for their courage in seeking justice. The case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals and bring offenders to justice, regardless of the passage of time or the circumstances surrounding the crimes.