Man jailed for 12 years for rape

A man who raped a woman on a country lane near Great Plumstead in broad daylight has been jailed for 12 years.

Kenneth Watson, age 53, from Lowestoft, was sentenced at Norwich Crown Court today (26 November 2024) following a trial at the same court earlier this year, when he was found guilty of rape, intentional strangulation and threats to kill.

The trial heard that on Wednesday 7 June 2023, Watson and his victim were walking together on Smee Lane when he attacked her. He raped her, held her neck so she couldn’t breathe and said he would kill her.

The victim managed to alert two passing dog walkers and run to them for help. The dog walkers called police and officers arrested Watson nearby a short while later.

Today Watson was sentenced to 12 years in prison, as well as three years on extended licence.  He was also placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.

In an impact statement read at today’s hearing, his victim said: “This incident has completely broken me. I’ve had to reach out and accept support from many services, which I find hard to do. But all I can do is put my head down and carry on until hopefully one day, it will somehow feel better.”

Detective Constable Helen Walters, who led the investigation, said: “Watson is a dangerous individual who took advantage of someone who should have been able to trust him.

“I commend the victim, who has shown incredible strength and courage throughout the trial. No sentence will take away the harm Watson has caused her, but I truly hope the verdict on this case is the start of the healing process for her. I would also like to thank the witnesses for their bravery and actions on the day of the incident.

“Today’s sentence should reassure victims of sexual violence that we do take it seriously. We will always pursue justice to the best of our ability, not just for the victim but also for the safety and protection of the wider public.”

Anyone who has been the victim of a sexual offence can call police on 999 in an emergency or report a crime on 101. If you need further support or don't feel you can speak to police, there are a list of support services who can help here.