Soldier Jailed for Raping Woman While She Slept in Bicester Barracks
Aidan Hackett, 27, based at St David’s Barracks in Bicester, pleaded guilty to rape at Oxford Crown Court on Monday (25/10). Today (17/11), he was sentenced to five years and three months behind bars and must sign the sex offenders’ register for life.
Victim Betrayed After Night Out in Oxford
The victim, a woman in her twenties, met Hackett at an Oxford nightclub on 6 June 2019. She took a taxi with him back to his room at Bicester Barracks. Despite telling Hackett she did not want sex, she fell asleep and woke to find Hackett raping her.
Swift Arrest and Solid Evidence Lead to Guilty Plea
Hackett was arrested the very same day. After a thorough investigation, he was charged with rape on 4 August this year. Detective Constable Tania Wasilewski-Norman of Oxford CID described the case as “a shocking example of a man abusing the victim’s trust.”
“The victim awoke to this attack and contacted the police immediately. Medical evidence confirmed the rape, and Hackett’s guilty plea spared her the trauma of a trial,” said DC Wasilewski-Norman.
“Taking advantage of a sleeping, vulnerable woman is utterly unacceptable. We will always support victims and bring offenders to justice.”
Victim Praised for Courage Throughout Lengthy Investigation
Detective Constable Nikki Lawton from Aylesbury police station, who supported the victim, called her “a true inspiration.” She added:
“The victim simply wanted to chat and listen to music but was betrayed by Hackett’s complete abuse of trust. Over two years, she has sacrificed much to help bring him to justice.
“To any future victims: you will be listened to, believed, and supported. This kind of crime is never acceptable. Please report it – we will investigate fully.”
