Description
A MAN has been jailed for eight-and-a-half years after being found guilty of raping and assaulting a sex worker in Southampton.
Christian Hingarau attacked the 36-year-old woman in the early morning incident at an address in Empress Road, Bevois.
The 30-year-old pleaded not guilty but was convicted by a jury during his trial at Southampton Crown Court.
Hingarau had pleaded guilty to a second count but denied the rape, which happened on January 23.
Hampshire Constabulary said there is often a reluctance for sex workers to come forward and the brave woman in this case initially felt the same.
When asked following conviction if there is anything she would say to other working women, the victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: "We can get justice, we deserve it, we are valued.
"If you have been hurt - come forward, get help, you will be listened to."
Hingarau was sentenced to eight years and six months in prison and placed on the sex offenders register for life.
He was also given a sexual harm protection order for 15 years.
Detective Sergeant Janine Bradley, Senior Investigating Officer, said the victim didnt want to report this crime at first as she thought she would not be believed.
He added: "There is often a reluctance to come forward, but this case shows how seriously we take such crimes.
"We want to encourage sex workers in the future to report these crimes. If you report it, you will be listened to."
The investigation is part of Operation Hem, which is Hampshire Constabulary's long-term response to issues around street prostitution in the city.
It sees the force work with other partner agencies to develop routes out of prostitution while safeguarding those street workers who are at significant risk of harm.
It targets those people who abuse, exploit or are violent towards sex workers.
If you have information about the exploitation or abuse of sex workers or if you have suffered abuse, violence or exploitation yourself, please report it to the police on 101 (or 999 in an emergency).
If you are involved in sex work and would like support or advice to keep yourself safe, we can help direct you to the appropriate agency.