PAUL THORPE FROM BRANSHOLEMEETS JUSTICE IN HULL FOR RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT CASES

In a case that has shocked the community of Bransholme and the wider Hull area, Paul Thorpe, aged 46, has been convicted and sentenced for heinous crimes involving a young girl and a teenage victim. The proceedings took place at Hull Crown Court, where the jury reached a unanimous verdict after a swift deliberation of just an hour and a half.

Thorpe's criminal actions came to light following a disturbing incident involving a nine-year-old girl. According to the prosecution, Thorpe approached the young girl under the guise of playing a game. He then proceeded to blindfold her, an act that caused her to feel sick and to cry silently behind the blindfold. The court heard that during this encounter, Thorpe raped the girl, an act that has left a lasting impact on her life.

Prosecutor Patrick Palmer detailed the assault, emphasizing the manipulative manner in which Thorpe lured the girl into the situation. The court was also informed about another disturbing incident involving a 17-year-old girl. Thorpe reportedly offered her money in exchange for sex. When she refused his proposition, he sexually assaulted her. The young woman managed to escape, fleeing the scene with only one shoe, and sought help from nearby residents. She was later found in the street, visibly shaken and crying, a clear sign of the trauma she endured.

Following the allegations, police launched an investigation. Thorpe, fearing arrest, fled the area and remained on the run for two months. His evasion was eventually thwarted through a police sting operation, which led to his apprehension. The jury, after hearing all evidence, swiftly returned guilty verdicts on all charges.

Judge Mr. Justice Keith sentenced Thorpe to nine years in prison for the rape, and an additional 18 months for indecent assault. He also received a one-month sentence for possessing a lock knife, which he was found carrying at the time of his arrest. All sentences are to be served concurrently. The judge also ordered Thorpe to be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life and prohibited him from working with children in any capacity.

In his remarks, Mr. Justice Keith expressed concern about Thorpe’s conduct and its impact. He acknowledged that Thorpe might face a tougher time in prison due to the nature of his crimes. The judge highlighted the disturbing nature of the offenses, noting that Thorpe had told a nine-year-old girl he wanted to play a game with her, a statement that underscores the manipulative tactics used. The court also heard victim impact statements, which painted a somber picture of the emotional toll inflicted by Thorpe’s actions.

During his arrest earlier this year, Thorpe was found in possession of a lock knife, to which he pleaded guilty. His lack of previous convictions was noted, but the severity of his recent crimes warranted a substantial sentence. PC Nigel Godfrey, who led the investigation, expressed his concern for the victims and their families, emphasizing the lasting damage caused by Thorpe’s offending. He also thanked those involved for their resilience and strength, hoping that they can now begin the process of healing and moving forward with their lives.