A sex offender who crushed sleeping tablets and concealed them inside cold and flu medication to rape a woman while she was unconscious has been sentenced to more than two decades behind bars.
Devious Drugging and Assault
Lee Hampton, 50, from Hollingbourne in Kent, was found guilty of a horrific campaign of sexual abuse after a trial at Swindon Crown Court. The court heard how he deliberately drugged his victim against her will to facilitate his crimes.
Hampton's method involved crushing sleeping pills and carefully placing the powder inside over-the-counter cold and flu tablets. After the unsuspecting woman took the medication, he would sexually assault her while she was asleep and unable to defend herself.
Wiltshire Police confirmed that the offender also attempted to spike the victim's food with sleeping pills on other occasions. His offending, which took place in Swindon, was described by investigating officers as representing 'some of the worst behaviour imaginable in humanity'.
Justice Served After Brave Testimony
On November 13, Hampton was sentenced for his catalogue of crimes. The court convicted him on seven counts of rape, four counts of sexual assault, and two counts of administering a drug with intent.
Judge Sarah Rowland handed down a prison sentence of 24 years. She also ordered that Hampton must serve a further six years on licence upon his release, extending the total period of supervision to 30 years.
The crimes only came to light when the victim discovered what had been happening and found the courage to report Hampton to the police.
Lasting Trauma and Police Praise
In a powerful victim impact statement, the woman described the profound psychological damage she has suffered. She said, 'The psychological damage cannot begin to be put into words, and I don't know how to try and express the impact this has had on me.'
She revealed her ongoing struggle with daily flashbacks and nightmares, adding her fear that she may 'never be able to trust anyone again' or enjoy a healthy relationship.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Kolasinski of Wiltshire Police praised the victim's 'unwavering bravery' throughout the investigation and trial. He stated that without her support, 'justice may not have been brought to the offender.'
The officer also highlighted the 'diligent, determined, and relentless investigation' conducted by former complex crime investigator Gemma Sole, who supported the victim and ensured justice was served.
Hampton was described as having shared vile videos and pictures of his crimes with others, adding a further layer of degradation to his already monstrous actions.
