ROBERT FRANCIS SENTENCED IN SLOUGH FOR MULTIPLE RAPE OFFENSES AFTER BRUTAL CRIMES

Following a comprehensive investigation conducted by Thames Valley Police, Robert Francis has been formally convicted and sentenced for multiple counts of sexual assault and rape. The case, which garnered significant attention in the Slough area, culminated in a lengthy trial at Reading Crown Court, where the details of his crimes were laid bare.

Robert Francis, aged 52 and formerly residing on High Street in Slough, faced justice after a ten-day trial that concluded on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. The court found him guilty of two separate charges of rape involving one woman and an additional count of rape involving another woman. These convictions stem from a series of predatory acts committed over a span of time, highlighting a disturbing pattern of exploitation.

The first incident took place in 2023, when Francis established a relationship with a vulnerable woman in Slough. Over the course of their acquaintance, he gained her trust, only to betray it in a most heinous manner. On the night of June 9, 2023, Francis deliberately intoxicated the woman, rendering her unable to resist or defend herself. During this vulnerable state, he assaulted her sexually on two separate occasions, actions that would later form the basis of the criminal charges against him.

Following the assault, the victim reported the incident to the police, prompting an investigation. Robert Francis was swiftly apprehended on June 11, 2023. Initially, the authorities determined that the evidence was insufficient to press charges immediately, and Francis was released on bail under specific conditions while further inquiries were carried out.

However, the pattern of predatory behavior did not cease. On June 6, 2024, Francis once again befriended a different woman in Slough, who was also vulnerable. He once more gained her trust, only to commit a grave assault while she was unconscious. The victim managed to wake up and fled the scene, prompting immediate police action. Francis was arrested on the same day, June 6, 2024.

Subsequently, on June 7, 2024, he was formally charged with two counts of rape involving the first victim and one count of rape involving the second victim. The evidence presented during the trial painted a disturbing picture of a man who deliberately targeted women in vulnerable states for his own gratification.

At the sentencing hearing, the court handed down a substantial custodial sentence of 16 years for Robert Francis. Additionally, he was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which imposes strict restrictions on his behavior and contact with others. He is also required to register as a sex offender for life and will be under an extended license for five years following his release, ensuring ongoing supervision and monitoring.

Detective Constable William Holbrook commented on the case, stating, "Robert Francis has sought out vulnerable females who he has then exploited for his own gain. What he did not account for was the strength of both the victims, to stand up, support the investigations, and hold him criminally accountable for what he did."

Detective Constable Debbie Joyce also expressed her admiration for the victims' resilience, saying, "The victims in this case have shown remarkable strength and courage throughout the investigation process and subsequent trial. I hope that they can now find some closure and move forwards with their lives. We are absolutely dedicated to investigating such crimes and we would encourage anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence to please report it. You will be supported, and we will investigate thoroughly to bring offenders such as Robert Francis to justice."