STEPHEN HAWKES FROM NORWICH SENTENCED TO 17 YEARS FOR HISTORICAL SEX OFFENCES

In a significant case that has spanned decades, Stephen Hawkes, aged 62 and residing on Bowers Avenue in the Mile Cross area of Norwich, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 17 years following his conviction for multiple historical sexual offences. The sentencing took place at Norwich Crown Court, where Hawkes was found guilty by a jury after a detailed three-day trial that examined allegations dating back to the 1980s.

Hawkes was convicted on three counts of rape and seven counts of indecent assault, all committed against three young females under the age of 16. These offences, which occurred in Norwich during the 1980s, had remained undisclosed for many years until recent revelations brought them to light. As part of his sentence, Hawkes was also ordered to be placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register indefinitely, a measure designed to monitor his activities and prevent further harm.

The case was brought to justice through the diligent efforts of Norfolk’s Specialist Rape Investigation Unit. Detective Inspector Ross McDermott emphasized the importance of the investigation, stating, “Despite these offences being disclosed some 30 years after the event, a meticulous investigation has enabled this offender to be brought to justice.” He further expressed hope that the verdict would encourage other victims of similar crimes, who may have previously remained silent, to come forward. “They can be safe in the knowledge that we will fight relentlessly for the truth and for justice not just for the victim, but also for the safety and protection of the wider public,” he added.

The allegations only surfaced recently when one of the women decided to speak out after discussing her childhood experiences with a social worker. Clare Matthews, the prosecutor, explained that it was this disclosure that prompted the woman to report the abuse to the police. Subsequently, two other women came forward, sharing their own accounts of abuse involving Hawkes.

During the trial, it was revealed that the victim had not initially spoken about the abuse but had mentioned to a school friend that Hawkes had offered her £20 in exchange for sex. Hawkes, in his defense, denied all allegations, asserting that he had not sexually assaulted any of the three girls and expressing confusion over why they would fabricate such accusations. “I wish I knew why they made up the lies,” he stated during the proceedings.

Hawkes’s defense attorney, Lori Tucker, questioned the reliability of the victims’ memories, which dated back nearly three decades. She urged the jury to be certain of their verdict, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration given the passage of time and the nature of the allegations.