DENIS KADENA AND HIS SHOCKING CRIME IN SOUTHAMPTON AND TOTTEN
A young schoolgirl from Totton, Southampton, who was subjected to a heinous sexual assault by a predator, continues to struggle with the devastating aftermath of the attack.Close friends and family members have described how her self-esteem has been shattered and how she remains deeply affected by the traumatic experience.
The assault occurred when the victim was lured into a secluded area by Denis Kadena, a 34-year-old delivery driver.
He then took her into his van, where he committed the assault, which has been described as a 'horrific ordeal.' The attack has left her with a profound sense of fear, particularly when it comes to venturing outside alone.
Her confidence has been significantly diminished, and she now relies heavily on her phone for reassurance and a sense of safety.
Kadena was brought before Southampton Crown Court, where he was sentenced to 11 years in prison, accompanied by a four-year extended license.
The court heard that his actions were 'predatory' and that he had engaged in a calculated attempt to exploit the young girl.
During the proceedings, the victim's statement was read aloud, revealing her ongoing fears.
She expressed her feelings of vulnerability, stating, “Some days I just want to crawl under a table and hide.
He took something special from me.
I am slowly starting to build myself back up.
Now I am hoping I can put this behind me and try to get better.” A person close to the girl also spoke about her ongoing recovery, emphasizing the long road ahead.
They described her as a 'frightened little girl' who now depends heavily on her mobile device to feel secure.
The individual added, “She never manages to be out on her own for more than 10 minutes.” The investigation into Kadena’s actions was described as 'robust' by Hampshire Constabulary.
Detective Constable Marie Leather highlighted the thoroughness of the police work, which ultimately led to Kadena’s arrest and prosecution.
She explained that the police conducted extensive inquiries, including witness interviews, house-to-house investigations, and a comprehensive review of CCTV footage.
This included collecting 'vast quantities' of Ring doorbell footage from local residents and businesses.
DC Leather emphasized the rarity of such crimes in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, noting that stranger rapes are uncommon but nonetheless devastating.
She stressed the importance of prioritizing these cases and ensuring that sufficient evidence is gathered swiftly.
Despite challenges in sourcing all relevant CCTV footage, the investigation team persisted and succeeded in obtaining critical evidence.
The police praised the bravery of the young girl for reporting the incident, which was instrumental in bringing Kadena to justice.
Detective Inspector Claire Shawley commended her courage, stating, “If it wasn’t for her bravery, then we would not have been in a position to achieve the result that we have.
Kadena would still be out on the streets as a risk to others.
She has been incredibly brave given the trauma she has experienced – especially at such a young age.” During the court hearing, Judge Christopher Parker KC addressed Kadena directly, describing his behavior as 'opportunistic' with a 'predatory element.' Although Kadena initially denied the charges, he later accepted full responsibility for his actions.
The judge sentenced him to a significant prison term, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the impact on the victim.
This case underscores the importance of diligent police work and the bravery of victims in seeking justice against those who commit such vile acts.
It also serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and support for victims of sexual violence in communities across Southampton and beyond.
