THOMAS BROWBANK SENTENCED FOR BRUTAL RAPE IN WIGTON AND HARRABY

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Wigton and Harraby, Thomas Browbank, aged 58, was convicted of a series of heinous sexual offenses that took place in and around Wigton. The incident, which culminated in a brutal rape, was brought to light after Browbank’s own wife recognized him from a police appeal and contacted authorities, leading to his arrest and subsequent conviction.

Thomas Browbank, who resided at Howrigg Bank in Wigton at the time of the offenses, was found guilty of stalking a teenage girl through the streets of Wigton and repeatedly assaulting her in a secluded field. The crimes occurred in the early hours of May 9 of the previous year, and the details of the attack revealed a disturbing pattern of intimidation and violence. The jury, after a week-long trial, deliberated for less than 45 minutes before returning a verdict of guilty on three counts of rape and two additional serious sexual assault charges.

Prosecutor Tim Evans recounted how the case was solved: “When the police issued an appeal in the News & Star for information about the man shown in a CCTV still, the defendant’s own wife contacted the rape incident room to identify him. It was her recognition that led to Browbank’s arrest and subsequent prosecution.”

During the sentencing hearing at Carlisle Crown Court, Browbank was visibly emotional, weeping openly in the dock. However, Judge Paul Batty, QC, was quick to dismiss any sympathy, stating, “You are upset now but I believe it is self-pity – not pity for your victim.” The judge emphasized the severity of Browbank’s actions, condemning his behavior as barbaric and noting that he would be required to register as a sex offender indefinitely.

The court heard from the 18-year-old victim, whose identity remains protected by law. She described the profound impact the assault had on her life, saying, “It felt as though I had lost my 18th year – friends drifted away because I was no longer fun to be around, and my studies suffered.” She also shared her fears and anxiety, recounting a panic attack triggered by a man she believed was following her in Carlisle. Despite her trauma, she expressed a desire to reclaim her life, stating, “I don’t want to remain a victim stuck at home. I don’t want this to ruin my life. I don’t want to be a zombie any more.”

Throughout the trial, Browbank maintained his innocence, claiming he had no memory of the events due to alleged ill-health and excessive alcohol consumption on the night of the attack. However, forensic evidence told a different story: DNA samples taken from Browbank and the victim’s clothing matched with odds of more than 81 million to one against a random match. Additionally, the victim was able to identify a tattoo on her attacker’s arm, which was consistent with Browbank’s own tattoo.

Defense counsel Greg Hoare suggested that Browbank’s claimed amnesia might be genuine, possibly caused by his alcohol intake that night. He also highlighted Browbank’s previously good character and the potential stigma his conviction would impose on his family.

Detective Inspector Paul Smith, the senior investigating officer, commented on the case: “The sentence reflects the appalling circumstances of this assault. Despite overwhelming evidence, including DNA, Browbank failed to accept responsibility, forcing the victim to relive her trauma during the trial. She has shown remarkable bravery and resilience throughout this process, and her courage has earned the admiration of everyone involved in the case.”