A man has today been jailed after raping a teenager in Burnley.
Lewis Watson (pictured) of Hazel Grove, Ribbleton, was in Burnley town centre when he spied out his victim – a 17-year-old girl – who was walking to a bus stop.
Watson (30) started talking to her, even asking her age. When she said she was 17, he told her he was 23.
It was raining, so Watson told the victim to walk with him before suggesting they find shelter and stand in an over-hang of a shop.
It was there that he sexually assaulted her, before guiding her to a second location, and raping her. She tried to stop him.
Watson was arrested on suspicion of, and later charged with rape and sexual assault.
At Burnley Crown Court, he pleaded guilty and was given a 19-year sentence, comprising of 11 years in custody, and eight years on extended license.
In a victim impact statement, the victim said: “I can no longer sleep, I get flashbacks of that day every night. The image will forever be ingrained in my mind. I no longer trust people. This man scarred me for life. Words just can’t describe the impact this has had on me, and it will live with me for the rest of my life.”
DC Jodie Nolan, and DC Laura Jenkins of Lancashire Constabulary’s Rape and Serious Sexual Offences investigation team said: “Lewis’ victim was innocent; a child walking to a bus station. The thought of being attacked shouldn’t have even crossed her mind.
“She was attacked though. Watson approached her, made her feel uncomfortable, lured her to another location and raped her.
“I can only commend the victim for the incredible bravery and strength she has shown throughout proceedings. I hope that with Watson jailed, she can now begin to heal and re-build her life.
DC Jenkins added: “Watson is despicable and perverted. The crimes committed by him are nothing short of abhorrent, and I welcome the sentence handed down on him today.
“I hope that this sets a clear example that rape, and serious sexual assaults will not be tolerated in Lancashire. If you have been a victim of any sexual offence, please know that we will listen to you, we will investigate and we will do all we can to bring the person responsible to justice.
“If you do have anything to report to us, please get in contact on 101. If a crime is ongoing, call 999.”
