Local News · Salisbury
Salisbury man convicted of rape following trial at Winchester Crown Court
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Andrew Kempson has been found guilty of rape and sexual assault by penetration after a week-long trial, with sentencing scheduled for December.
A 45-year-old man from Salisbury has been convicted of serious sexual offences following a week-long trial at Winchester Crown Court.
Andrew Kempson, of Hill Road, Laverstock, was found guilty by a jury of one count of rape and one count of sexual assault by penetration. The offences were determined to have taken place between April 2024 and January 2025.
During the proceedings, jurors heard that the victim and Kempson had been friends for several years. The court was told that the initial offence occurred around Easter 2024. The victim testified that she woke to find Kempson raping her while she was asleep and immediately instructed him to stop.
A second incident was reported to have taken place in January 2025. The victim stated that she had clearly expressed her intention to sleep and her lack of consent for any sexual activity before going to bed. She told the court she later awoke to find Kempson sexually touching her and penetrating her with his fingers. She again told him to stop.
Prosecutor Ellie Fargin informed the jury that the victim reported the incidents to the police after confiding in friends. The court heard that the offences have had a profound impact on the woman, leaving her struggling with sleep and suffering from flashbacks.
The defence counsel, Sachin Rajput, argued on behalf of Kempson, stating that the defendant maintained he believed the woman was consenting during both incidents.
After deliberating for approximately 12 hours, the jury returned majority verdicts of 10-1 on both charges.
Judge Jodie Mittell has adjourned the case for sentencing until December 21. While Kempson has been granted bail under specific conditions until his sentencing date, the judge indicated that a custodial sentence is expected.
Source: Salisbury Journal — Salisbury · View original