Life Convicted Rapist Patrick Simms Jailed for Historic Hackney Attack
Simms Gets Nine Years for Rape of Teen in 1987
Patrick Simms, 58, was found guilty at Wood Green Crown Court of raping a girl under 16 after a 14-day trial. On Thursday, 20 July, he was sentenced to nine years behind bars, with an extended licence period of eight years. He will serve this sentence immediately and cannot apply for parole until he has served two thirds of it.
Simms Already Serving Life for Multiple Rapes
Simms was no stranger to the justice system. He is already serving a life sentence for three separate rapes committed in Hackney during the 1990s. The latest conviction stems from an attack in 1987 when the victim was just 15.
Victim’s Courage Brings Monster to Justice
The victim came forward in 2019, over 30 years after the attack. She said she met Simms, then 22, at a Hackney leisure centre. After chatting, Simms offered her a lift, later taking her to his Holly Street address where he raped her.
She initially stayed silent, fearing disbelief and shame for her and her family. But after counselling and reflection, she bravely reported the crime. The Met’s Central East Sapphire Team launched a full investigation.
Police & Victim Speak Out on Justice and Warning
Detective Sergeant Matthew Cooksey said: “Simms is a prolific offender and we are glad he has now been brought to justice. Throughout the trial, he tried to derail and manipulate the jury, but they saw through him and convicted him unanimously. We thank the victim for her bravery and urge others affected to come forward.”
PC Daniel Swindells added: “The consequences of Simms’ attack never left the victim. We hope this conviction brings her closure. Reporting sexual crimes is tough, but we have specialist officers ready to support victims and bring offenders to justice.”
The victim said: “As my daughter approached 16 and with #MeToo raising awareness, I felt compelled to find the man who violated me. I feared he could hurt her too. He was a danger then and remains one. Though I will never forget that cruel attack, justice now gives me closure after 35 years of pain.”
Judge Warns Simms Is Extremely Dangerous
Judge Lucas described Simms as “extremely dangerous” and predicted more victims if he ever gets out. The judge explained he would have given Simms another life sentence if allowed but instead imposed the nine-year term on top of his existing life sentence.
He praised the Crown Prosecution and Detective Cooksey for handling this challenging case.
