'They have shown incredible courage' - Police pay tribute to victims of Rowley Regis rapist now 'rightly behind bars' for five years
Police have praised the bravery of the woman and girl targeted by a man from Rowley Regis after he was jailed for rape and sexual assault.
In June 2021, West Midlands Police were made aware of allegations against James Fletcher dating back a number of years.
Fletcher was spoken to by officers, and following further enquiries, detectives were able to establish he was responsible for a pattern of sexual abuse against a girl and a woman who were both known to him.
Fletcher, of Canterbury Close, was subsequently arrested and charged with a number of sexual offences, and the case went to trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court.
However, part way through that trial Fletcher changed his plea and admitted rape, attempted rape, and two sexual assaults, including one against a child under 13.
At the same court on Wednesday, November 12, he was sentenced to five years in prison, with an additional three years on licence.
Investigating officer, DC Adrian Jackson, from West Midlands Police's Public Protection Unit, said: “This investigation and subsequent legal proceedings were lengthy, and I commend those who spoke out about Fletcher - for doing so in the first place, and then for having the patience and bravery to deal with the process that followed.
“They have shown incredible courage by speaking out, and by doing so, a sexual predator is now rightly behind bars.
“I hope anyone reading this knows that support is available in a number of different ways, and if you have experienced something similar – we are here for you.”
Those abused by Fletcher were supported by specially trained officers throughout the investigation and subsequent court process.
The girl, abused by Fletcher from the age of 12, told the court via a statement: “Abuse from you has left lasting effects on my life and mental health, and I continue to struggle with the consequences of what happened to me.
“I felt scared and manipulated into silence, and the trauma still affects me every day.”
The woman who Fletcher abused said: “My family have been so supportive throughout everything, I know we can all sleep safe knowing this person has been brought to justice and not able to cause pain or misery again.”
