Aylesbury Crown Court heard that Sean Wilcox, of no fixed abode, entered a home through an unlocked door on Dulwich Close in Newport Pagnell at around 4:30am on July 26 last year. He found a 29-year-old woman asleep on the sofa and raped her before fleeing.
Background of Offences
Wilcox had earlier attempted to break into cars in the area to steal items before trying doors of nearby properties. Thames Valley Police traced and arrested him on August 1, charging him the following day.
Convictions and Sentence
On January 16 this year, after a four-day trial, a unanimous jury found Wilcox guilty of rape. He also pleaded guilty to six counts of theft from a motor vehicle, three counts of fraud by false representation, three counts of vehicle interference, two counts of burglary with intent to steal, one count of theft from a person, and possession of class A and class B drugs (cocaine and cannabis). The court sentenced him to a total of 18 years' imprisonment.
Police Statement
Investigating officer Detective Constable Jessica Cooper, of Milton Keynes CID, said: “The bravery and courage shown by the victim throughout this investigation has been admirable. No sentence will ever change the impact that this man has had on her life. However, we hope that this sentence provides her with some measure of justice.”
Cooper added: “This was a deeply traumatic offence committed against a woman who was asleep in a place where she had every right to feel safe. I would like to commend the victim for the strength she has shown in supporting this prosecution and helping to ensure that Wilcox was held accountable for his actions.”
Ongoing Commitment
Thames Valley Police reiterated their commitment to thoroughly investigating all reports of rape and serious sexual offences, supporting victims, and bringing offenders before the courts.
