Man sentenced to life in prison for multiple rapes

A man has been sentenced today (Friday 8 December 2023) after being found guilty of multiple rapes and sexual assaults.

Appearing before King's Lynn Crown Court for sentencing, Johnathan Hutton, 39, of Campus Way, Lincoln, Hutton was jailed for life for the series of sex offences. He has been ordered to serve a minimum of 14 years in prison before he is eligible for parole. Hutton will also be on the On Sex Offenders Register for life.

Hutton was convicted by a jury in October following a 12-day trial of six counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault by penetration, and one count of sexual touching, against four victims over a more than 20-year period.

The Judge in the case, HHJ SHAW,  described Hutton as ‘sociopathic’, ‘misogynistic’, ‘calculating’ and a dangerous and manipulative figure who showed no remorse during the proceedings.

The offences took place between 2001 and 2023, across Norfolk, Cheshire, and Lincolnshire. After one of Hutton’s victims came forward, Norfolk Police conducted an investigation. Hutton, who was a student at the University of Lincoln at the time, was arrested in Lincolnshire in April this year and dealt with by Norfolk officers.

Det con Jack Moore said: “Hutton had a long history of offending which has only come to light due to the bravery of his victims, some of whom have suffered in silence for many years.

“He is a clear danger to women, and I hope this sentence gives his victims some sense of justice and peace.

“Their actions have doubtless saved other future victims from harm. The victims have been supported through the whole process through a number of support services including ISVAs (Independent Sexual Violence Advisors).

“We also hope this sentence reassures victims of sexual crimes that they will be listened to if they come forward so that violent and controlling men like Hutton who have no respect for women can be given substantial jail terms for their crimes.”

All of the victims described sexual activity which was not consensual as well as physical and emotional abuse.

One of his victims also described how she was pushed down the stairs and had her head held underwater in the bath. Another said he was “unpredictable and scary.”

Anyone who has been a victim of sexual offences can seek help through the police or from one of our support organisations, such as the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC).

If you would like to report a sexual offence, call 999 in an emergency. 101 is the non-emergency police number to report a crime or you can access help and support services here.

Image caption: Johnathan Hutton