Man Jailed for Raping Under-13 Girl in Isle of Wight Woodland
On Monday afternoon, 31 August 2020, police rushed to Fort Victoria Country Park after a young girl was seriously sexually assaulted by a stranger in the woods. The shocking attack sparked a swift and thorough investigation involving officers from both the Isle of Wight and Hampshire.
Perpetrator Brought to Justice
Graham Medway, 62, from Freshwater, was charged with the rape of a child under 13. Yesterday, he appeared in court and was handed a hefty nine-year prison sentence, plus a five-year licence extension.
Police Praise Community Support
Detective Chief Inspector Liam Davies said: “I am so pleased that we have been able to secure justice for the young girl and her family. I want to thank them for their brave support and the public for their overwhelming response to our appeals. Both have been pivotal in achieving a successful conviction.”
“Staff across the Constabulary worked tirelessly, often around the clock and away from their families, to ensure this dangerous man is off our streets.”
Reassurance for the Isle of Wight Community
Superintendent Sarah Jackson, District Commander for the Isle of Wight, added: “Stranger assaults of this nature against children are extremely rare. I hope the community feels reassured that when we receive these allegations, we take them seriously and do all we can to bring offenders to justice.”
“We work hard in partnership with local organisations to tackle sexual offences and support survivors. We want everyone to have the confidence to come forward if something has happened to them or someone they know.”
Get Help or Report Concerns
- If you have any concerns or information about child sexual abuse, contact police on 101 — your call will be treated in confidence.
- You can also reach out to Childline on 0800 11 11 for support.
- Adults worried about a child can call the NSPCC Helpline at 0808 800 5000.
