A man has been jailed for seven years after being found guilty of raping and strangling a woman in Andover. Martin Collins, 46, was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court following the horrific attacks last summer.
Collins, of Netton Close in Bishopstone, Wiltshire, was convicted by a jury of rape and two counts of intentional strangulation against a woman known to him. He was also found guilty of criminal damage to a tumble dryer.
The offences occurred between 1st July and 1st August 2023 at an address in Andover.
Following a trial that commenced on Monday 9th June, the jury delivered their verdicts on Friday 13th June. Collins received his seven-year sentence that same afternoon from His Honour Judge Dugdale, who also imposed a 20-year restraining order.
Detective Constable Elizabeth Pound from the specialist Amberstone team commented: “This was a horrific series of assaults, including a rape, which Collins has now been brought to justice for.
“Rape can have a devastating and lifelong impact on victims, leaving them to feel trapped or afraid to seek help.
“The bravery of the woman in this case is to be commended, and it is down to her courage that a dangerous man is now in prison.
“We understand that people impacted by crimes such as rape, sexual assault or domestic violence may not always have the confidence to speak about what has happened to them right away.
“I want to encourage anyone affected to contact police on 101 where you can speak to a specialist officer in confidence, or to seek support from a specialist support service if you need it.
“I also want to thank PSI Samantha NOL, who supported the victim throughout the investigation, kept her updated and accompanied her to court. Her contribution alongside mine has been invaluable.”
Hampshire Police acknowledges that not everyone feels confident approaching police about their experiences. Alternative specialist support services are available to help victims cope with the impact of abuse.
For information and contact details regarding sexual abuse support services, visit: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault/support-for-victims-of-rape-and-sexual-assault/
