Darren Hendry, 35, of Denmark Street, Aldershot, has been sentenced to seven years in prison after being convicted of attempted rape, strangulation, and assault. He will also serve a further five years on licence following his release. Hendry appeared at Southampton Crown Court on Friday, September 27, where the sentence was handed down. Additionally, he will be subject to a ten-year restraining order and will remain on the sex offender registry for life.
The court heard that Hendry attempted to rape a woman in her 30s at an address in Aldershot in December 2023. During the incident, the woman attempted to leave the property but was assaulted by Hendry, who picked her up by the ribs, causing her to struggle to breathe. She managed to fight him off and eventually left the address at 5 a.m. before going to Frimley Park Hospital for treatment.
Hendry was arrested and faced multiple charges. He pleaded guilty to criminal damage and harassment but denied two counts of rape, two counts of strangulation, attempted rape, and three counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He was found not guilty of two counts of rape, one count of strangulation, and two counts of assault related to incidents that were alleged to have occurred in Brighton and Fleet.
However, Hendry was found guilty of one count of attempted rape, strangulation, and assaulting a person thereby occasioning actual bodily harm.
Temporary Detective Constable Sean Cooke, who led the investigation, praised the victim’s bravery, stating, “This was a terrifying incident that has had a life-long impact on the woman involved. I would like to praise her for her strength and the bravery that she has shown during the investigation and trial in extremely challenging circumstances. I hope that now Hendry is in prison, she is able to try and move forward and rebuild her life.
He also emphasised that the safety of the community is a priority, adding, “No-one should have to feel in fear of their safety, and everyone should feel safe and protected within our communities. Violence of any kind will not be tolerated. I hope this case sends a clear message to those who commit violent and sexual offences: you will be pursued, we will catch you, and you will be dealt with robustly.
The police have encouraged anyone who has been affected by sexual abuse to come forward and report it by calling 101, assuring that reports will be treated in the strictest confidence. Support services are also available for those who may not wish to contact the police directly.
For more information on where to seek support or how to make a report, please visit Hampshire Police’s website.
