A 52-year-old man from Lydd has been jailed for eight years after being found guilty of rape and sexual assault following a trial at Canterbury Crown Court.
Steven Johnson targeted a woman at his home address on the evening of 12 June 2023. After offering the victim cannabis, Johnson exploited her vulnerability and subjected her to a sexual assault. Despite her repeatedly refusing his advances and telling him no, Johnson blocked her from leaving his room and raped her.
Immediately after the attack, the victim managed to contact a friend, who promptly alerted Kent Police on her behalf. Officers dispatched to the scene located and arrested Johnson inside the property.
He was subsequently charged with one count of rape and one count of sexual assault. Although Johnson denied the charges, a jury delivered a unanimous guilty verdict following a four-day trial.
At his sentencing hearing on 16 July, Johnson was handed an eight-year prison term with extended licence conditions upon his eventual release. The court also imposed a 15-year restraining order strictly prohibiting him from making any contact with the victim.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Maria Goodwin said:
‘Johnson took every opportunity to deny the overwhelming evidence against him and showed no remorse for his actions. The only emotion he expressed throughout the investigation and court proceedings was in regard for himself.
‘I would also like to commend the victim for her resilience, strength, and determination. Despite the significant emotional impact the offences had upon her, she showed considerable courage reporting the incident and pursuing the matter to ensure Johnson was held accountable for his actions. Her strength of character and commitment for justice is deservingly recognised.’