Locations
Ratcliffe Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11
Description
A rapist convicted of four counts of rape against two victims was sentenced to a total of 17 years in jail yesterday (Wednesday 22 October) – following a case in which the Judge said he ‘sought to dominate all aspects of the victims’ lives’.
The sentencing hearing, held at Leicester Crown Court, follows Charles Isabirye’s conviction after a trial at the same court last month.
Isabirye, formally of Ratcliffe Road, Loughborough, denied the offences throughout the trial and claimed this his victims made up their allegations in collusion with each other.
At the sentencing hearing, where Isabirye was also sentenced for one count of breaching a restraining order and three counts of witness intimidation – counts which the jury also found him guilty of – His Honour Judge Evans, commented about the complex nature of the investigation and the conduct of the officer in the case, DC Sarah Le Boutillier
He stated she “conducted herself with professionalism” despite accusations made by Isabirye about her conduct and integrity.
Addressing Isabirye, he said:
“You continue to focus the blame for your current predicament on one of the victims, stating that ‘If it was not for her, you would not be in prison’.
“During the trial, you focussed upon the unfairness of the prosecution rather than the witness testimony, cleaving to the notion that the case was closed. You found and saw conspiracies everywhere and painted yourself as the victim.
“I have no doubt that you present as a serious risk to women.”
The 48-year-old was also made subject to a restraining order prohibiting contact with the victims and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
DC Le Boutillier added:
“I have nothing but praise for the victims in this case, not only for coming forward and reporting what happened to them, but for the bravery they showed in court throughout a lengthy, difficult trial.
“Isabirye sought to discredit them at every opportunity.
“While it doesn’t change what they went through, I hope they find some comfort in knowing he’s in prison for a significant amount of time.”