ROGER KING WELWYN GARDEN CITY SEX OFFENDER SENTENCED TO FOUR YEARS IN PRISON

In a case that has drawn significant attention in Welwyn Garden City, a local man named Roger King has been sentenced to four years behind bars following a serious sexual assault incident. The events unfolded earlier this year, in February, when King, who had been staying at the victim’s residence, engaged in a disturbing act of sexual violence against a woman he had met through the popular online dating platform, Plenty of Fish.

According to court proceedings held at St Albans Crown Court last Monday, the assault was not an isolated incident but part of a troubling pattern of behavior exhibited by King towards women. The court heard that the relationship between King and the victim had been deteriorating due to his controlling and jealous tendencies, which had become increasingly evident as their interactions progressed.

Deputy Circuit Judge Graham Arran, presiding over the case, sentenced the 50-year-old defendant to four years in prison. In his remarks, Judge Arran emphasized that King had a history of interfering in the lives of others, which he considered a significant factor in the sentencing decision. King, who resides on Burgundy Croft in Welwyn Garden City, pleaded guilty to charges of sexual assault by penetration and failing to comply with statutory notification requirements.

Prosecutor Marion Smullen provided detailed insights into the case, explaining that King and the victim had initially connected through the online dating service. It did not take long for the woman to realize that King was a controlling individual, eager to monitor her movements and inquire about her contacts. The prosecutor highlighted that the victim was particularly vulnerable at the time, as she was on anti-depressant medication, which may have affected her judgment and resilience.

The court was informed that the assault occurred at the victim’s home on February 1, 2017. At that time, King was staying with her and sought to engage in sexual activity despite her clear objections. The woman explicitly told him she did not want to have sex, but King persisted and forcibly carried out a sexual act on her, leaving her feeling violated and disgusted. The prosecutor described her reaction as one of profound discomfort and distress.

Following the incident, the victim reported the assault to the police, leading to King’s arrest in March of the same year. It was also revealed that during his stay at her residence, King failed to notify authorities of his presence, which was a legal requirement given his prior criminal history. This history includes a conviction from 2009 for causing a female to engage in sexual activity without her consent, for which he served a 48-month prison sentence.

Over the years, King’s criminal record expanded to include convictions for stalking, harassment, breaching restraining orders, and failing to adhere to notification obligations. These offenses underscored a pattern of concerning and predatory behavior towards women.

In addition to the prison sentence, Judge Arran imposed a sexual harm prevention order and a restraining order to prevent King from making any contact with the victim. The judge’s comments reflected the gravity of the case, noting that King had exploited the victim’s vulnerability for his own gratification. The court’s decision aims to protect the community and prevent further harm from the convicted offender.