Teenager “Scarred for Life” After Rape, Assailant Jailed

A young woman, who was sexually assaulted by an individual who confronted her in a town center, has stated that the experience has left her “scarred for life.” The victim, aged 17 at the time of the assault, reported an inability to sleep or place trust in others following the sentencing of her assailant on Monday. Lewis Watson, a 30-year-old from Preston, committed sexual assault and rape against the teenager in January. He approached her while she was walking to a bus stop in Burnley. Watson received a sentence of 11 years in prison, along with an additional eight years on licence, after entering a guilty plea at Burnley Crown Court. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Watson, residing at Hazel Grove, Ribbleton, assaulted the victim on January 29. He initiated a conversation with her, and upon inquiring about her age, to which she responded 17, he falsely stated his age as 23. Due to the rain, he proposed they seek cover under a shop’s overhang, where he then sexually assaulted her, according to Lancashire Police. The court was informed that he subsequently led her to a different spot where he raped her. In her victim impact statement, the teenager conveyed the profound effect of the assault, stating: “I can no longer sleep, I get flashbacks of that day every night.” She continued, “The image will forever be ingrained in my mind. I no longer trust people. This man scarred me for life.” The statement further expressed, “If only people knew what this monster did to me. Words just can’t describe the impact this has had on me, and it will live with me for the rest of my life.” Detective Constable Jodie Nolan of Lancashire Police commented on the case, describing Lewis Watson’s victim as “an innocent child walking to a bus station.” DC Nolan added, “The thought of being attacked shouldn’t have even crossed her mind.” She further praised the victim, stating, “I can only commend the victim for the incredible bravery and strength she has shown throughout proceedings.” Concluding her remarks, DC Nolan expressed hope that “with Watson jailed, she can now begin to heal and rebuild her life.” For individuals impacted by the themes presented in this report, the BBC Action Line offers a compilation of organizations prepared to offer assistance and guidance. Audiences can access the finest content from BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and engage with BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story suggestions may also be submitted to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available for review.