Locations
Tipton, West Midlands, DY4
Description
A teenager has spoken bravely of the ordeal she suffered, as the man who raped her was sentenced to a total of 24 years in prison.
Carl Houldey, from Tipton, was arrested after we were contacted by the girl alongside members of her family – when she reported that she had been attacked.
Specialist officers carried out extensive enquiries including a sensitive video recorded interview with the girl, interviews of Houldey, forensic analysis of clothing, and analysis of his phone.
He was subsequently charged with four counts of rape and a number of other sexual offences.
However, following a trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court, the 65-year-old was found guilty by a jury and was sentenced on Thursday 3 July to 24 years in prison, with a minimum of 16 years to be served before he is eligible for parole.
Houldey, of Shakespeare Road, was also put on the sex offenders register for life, given a sexual harm prevention order, and a restraining order against the girl he abused.
The girl has been supported by our officers throughout the court process, and as a survivor of sexual assault, has life-long anonymity by law.
In her victim personal statement, which she read from behind a screen in court, she said she wants people to be aware of what she went through: “Before this happened, I used to feel happy and safe. I liked going to school, playing with my friends, and spending time with my family.
“But after what he did, everything changed.
“At the beginning I felt upset and worried about what was going to happen next. I keep wondering if it was my fault, even though people tell me it wasn’t.
“I wish this had never happened to me. I just want to feel normal again.
“I am proud of myself that I told someone about it.
“I’m trying to be strong, even though I don’t feel strong. I have some good friends, and I am going to try and enjoy my life that is now different because of what you did to me.”
Investigating officer, DC Adrian Jackson, from our Public Protection Unit, said:
“Hearing that statement was incredibly powerful.
“By bravely speaking out and explaining what happened to her, a dangerous rapist has been put behind bars.
“She talks of moving forward with her life and that is something we all hope for, as well as knowing that by speaking out she has potentially protected others.
“The girl’s school safeguarding team must be commended for providing invaluable support to her during the investigation.
“For anyone reading this who has suffered abuse – support is available in a number of different places, and we are here for you.”