Victims’ evidence leads to rapist being jailed

Two victims have been praised for their courage in providing evidence that led to a rapist being jailed more than 10 years after committing his crimes.

Twenty-six-year-old Thomas Prince raped both victims – who are now adults – in June 2011 and December 2012. They did not know one another and both contacted police independently in 2020 to report what had happened.

Both victims said they had been raped by Prince after meeting him for the first time.

One victim told detectives she had drank alcohol, which had allowed him to take advantage of her. The other said she had told Prince she did not consent to sex but that she was overpowered.

Last month, following a trial at Leicester Crown Court, Prince – formerly of Western Road, Leicester – was found guilty of four counts of rape. On Friday (5 May) he was sentenced to nine years and three months’ imprisonment at the same court.

Thomas Prince

Detective Constable Rachael Lee, the investigating officer, said the outcome would not have been achieved had it not been for the bravery of the victims.

“First and foremost, I’d like to commend them on the strength they showed in giving evidence during the trial,” she said. “Since each of these horrific incidents occurred, they’ve been living their lives, continually traumatised about what had happened to them.

“To stand up in court and recount your ordeal in front of a jury takes an unbelievable amount of courage, but ultimately in this case it meant that Prince is now dealing the consequences of his crimes. I hope the outcome has provided them with a degree of closure.”

DC Lee is also encouraging any other victims of sexual offences to come forward. She added: “During this investigation, it became apparent there may be other people out there who are victims of Prince”.

“It’s never too late to make a report and you will be supported by specially-trained officers. If you have information which you think the police need to know about, then I would ask that you contact us.”

• There are a number of different agencies who are able to offer independent help and support to victims of sexual offences in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland
• Further information on these services and details can be found by visiting https://www.leics.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault