A Salisbury man has been sentenced to seven years in prison for a rape that occurred over a decade ago. James Haggaty, 30, of North View, Berwick St James, was sentenced on June 20 at Salisbury Crown Court for the assault which took place on August 30, 2013.

On the night of the incident, Haggaty met his victim at a taxi rank after a night out. Along with a friend, he helped her into a taxi and took her back to a property where he sexually assaulted her. The victim remained silent about the assault for many years before reporting the incident to the police in 2021.

In a statement read to the court, the victim said, “I always thought I would never be believed, and the longer I left it, the more unlikely any chance of getting justice seemed. It took me a long time to find the courage to report to the police, especially as I had found out that you (Haggaty) were on trial previously for a similar offence. Today, I am not the same person I was 11 years ago. I am looking for justice and healing. No sentence can undo what has been done, but it can affirm the severity of the crime, and the strength of survivors.

Sergeant Matt Goldring commended the victim for her bravery, stating, “Haggaty met his victim whilst she was in a very vulnerable state and took advantage of her. I would like to thank the victim in this case for her bravery in coming forward and for her unwavering strength throughout this period. Anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence, no matter the length of time, is urged to report it to police. We will not tolerate violence of this nature and we will continue to put perpetrators before the courts.”

For more information on reporting rape and sexual abuse, and to find supporting agencies, visit Wiltshire Police’s website.

We understand that reporting an offence can be difficult. You might not be completely sure what happened or how to talk about it. Our trained officers and partner organisations are here to listen and work together to support you in any way we can. Importantly, your information could help us bring the offender to justice and ensure that you, and others in similar situations, are kept safe.