Rapist Martin Butler who attacked his 16-year-old victim in a Gosport town centre alleyway has been locked up for nine years

Martin Butler attacked the girl, who was 16 at the time of the incident, in an alleyway off Gosport High Street between 5pm and 6pm on November 19, 2021. Portsmouth Crown Court heard that 43-year-old Butler, of Harbour Road in Gosport, then made threats that he would return and find the girl again if she told anyone what happened.

In fear of her safety, the girl did not report it to police until March this year. An investigation was launched and extensive enquiries, including a public E-fit appeal, identified Butler as the perpetrator. He was subsequently arrested and charged with rape and assault by penetration.

Following his trial in October, a jury found him guilty of both counts. Appearing at the same court today (Friday, December 2), Butler was sentenced to nine years in prison for rape, six years in prison to be served concurrently for assault by penetration, and an extended license period of five years. He is also subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and must sign the sex offenders register for life.

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DC Samantha Brown, from Hampshire Constabulary’s specialist Operation Amberstone team said: ‘These were horrendous crimes that have had a profound impact on the survivor in this case. Her incredible bravery in taking the step to report this to police and her courage throughout the trial period has been commendable, and it is because of this show of strength that a dangerous man is now in prison. We want the public to know that we will do everything in our power to investigate sexual offences, take robust action against those responsible, and provide support to people affected.”

Prior to the trial, the evidence and cross-examination of the survivor in this case was pre-recorded, under Section 28 of the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999. This unique piece of legislation allows vulnerable victims and witnesses to be questioned by prosecuting and defence barristers in advance and away from the court room. This evidence is recorded and then played to the jury at trial, to spare the individual the need to attend court.

Andrea Hills, CPS Wessex Senior Crown Prosecutor, said: ‘We worked with the police to bring all the evidence against Butler together to build a strong case for prosecution. Our commitment to providing early advice and discussing the case strategy with the police was key to building the case around Butler’s behaviour, his conduct and his actions. I would like to commend the victim in this case for her bravery in coming forward to support the prosecution case. Her evidence was pivotal in securing Butler’s conviction, and I hope that she will feel justice has been delivered today.’

:: Anyone who has been affected by sexual abuse, you can report this to police in confidence by calling 101. Not everyone who has experienced this type of abuse has the confidence to report it to police. There are services out there that can offer help to you, completely independent of the police, should you need support. For more information on where to seek support, or how to make a report to police, go to hampshire.police.uk.