A MAN from Christchurch has been jailed for a rape offence that took place more than two years ago.

Lewis Hawkett-Smith, aged 32, was sentenced to 5 years and 6 months in prison on Monday (December 15) at Bournemouth Crown Court.

He had been found guilty by jury of assaulting a female aged 13 and over by penetration at a previous hearing.

The investigation began during the early hours of May 28, 2023, when the victim reported to police that she had been sexually assaulted by an unknown man.

The victim had been out with a friend when she met Hawkett-Smith outside a bar in Fairmile Road.

After being separated for a short while, the victim contacted her friend at around 3am to say she had been sexually assaulted in a public place.

The victim ran away and met a couple walking home, who looked after her until officers made contact.

Following CCTV analysis, detectives identified Hawkett-Smith and he eventually handed himself in to police after arrest enquiries were carried out at his address and place of work.

Detective Sergeant Kate Bleese, of Dorset County CID, said: “The victim in this investigation has shown strength and bravery in coming forward to report what happened to her and providing evidence.

“Tackling violence against women and girls remains a key priority across the force and we are committed to supporting victims and ensuring that strong, decisive action is taken to bring offenders before the courts to be held accountable for their actions.”

Victims of rape or sexual assault who want to report directly to police, can call 101 and ask to be put in contact with a specially trained police officer.

Always dial 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, contact The Shores Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0800 970 9954.