Detective Brands Baseball Bat Rape 'One of the Most Violent' as Attacker Jailed
A detective has described a brutal attack on a sex worker as 'one of the most violent rapes I have ever seen,' issuing a message to other vulnerable women. Simon Tang, aged 56, was branded a 'dangerous offender' and sentenced to nine-and-a-half years in prison at Birmingham Crown Court on Monday, March 23.
Details of the Attack
On May 5 last year, Tang paid £20 for the services of a sex worker in Walsall. After consensual intercourse, he turned violent, retrieving a baseball bat from his car and beating her with it. He then raped her while menacingly resting the bat against her body. The victim, who was a sex worker, reported the attack fearing Tang might strike again, as he was a regular user of sex workers.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Tang was found guilty of two charges of rape and admitted to assault as well as possessing an offensive weapon. Judge Dean Kershaw, during sentencing, concluded that Tang held strong misogynistic views about women, particularly sex workers. The judge stated that Tang felt he 'owned' the victim and was entitled to what he wanted because he had paid her a fee.
Judge Kershaw emphasized: 'Sex workers are often the most vulnerable people. Whatever a person's profession, including sex workers, they are entitled not to be assaulted, sexually attacked or abused in any way.' He told Tang: 'You simply didn't believe what you did was rape. That's why you had a trial. You thought you were perfectly justified in attacking that lady with a bat.'
Police Response and Victim Support
West Midlands Police praised the victim's bravery in coming forward. Det Sgt Morgan Colley, from the force's investigation team, said: 'This is one of the most violent rapes I have ever seen in my time working in rape and serious sexual offences. The woman in this case has shown that we will take it seriously when abuse is reported to us, and we work tirelessly to get the best result.'
The victim spoke of how returning to the scene made her realize how lucky she was not to be 'left for dead.' She praised the police for swiftly arresting Tang but admitted the investigation was at times overwhelming, with having to relive the ordeal and undergo physical examinations being exhausting.
Aftermath and Licence
Tang will serve two-thirds of his sentence in custody before his release. He was also made the subject of an extended three-year licence. West Midlands Police continues to provide advice and support to those needing to report a rape or sexual assault, ensuring victims receive the necessary assistance throughout their recovery.
