Somerset man jailed for historic sex abuse

A Somerset man has been found guilty of two counts of historic rape of a girl under the age of 13 years. Christopher Hawker, a butcher from Taunton, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term for the offences.

Historic sex abuse compensation claims

Widely regarded locally as a family man, 42 year old Hawker did not have to face the consequences of his abuse for many years. Through a combination of grooming and fear, his unnamed victim suffered in silence with the psychological consequences of the abuse. For many years, she was unable to speak about her experiences and carried the burden of Hawker’s sickening assaults alone. However, with the right help and support she was able to speak to the police and bring her abuser to justice.

A member of our specialist abuse team at Slee Blackwell Solicitors, commented:

“As well as the remarkable bravery of the victim, what stands out in this case is the positive feedback regarding the sensitive and supportive help provided by the police, the Court and other local services. We act for victims of historic sex abuse all over the country.We offer a free and confidential helpline service by phone and email and are able to work on a No Win No Fee basis. We are very experienced in dealing with historic claims and resolving the legal complications that can arise when a claim is brought long after the abuse was carried out.”

“Bringing your abuser to justice will always be a difficult thing to do, but victims of historic sex abuse can take comfort in knowing that they will be provided with the best possible support from those experienced in dealing with such sensitive matters. We hope this story will encourage other victims to come forward so they no longer have to suffer in silence and bear the burden of the abuse alone.”

If you have been a victim of historic sex abuse and would like to speak to an experienced specialist lawyer to find out whether you may be entitled to compensation, please contact us in confidence by phone or email at [email protected].

Picture of Elizabeth Duncan

Elizabeth Duncan

Identified by the 2022 edition of The Legal 500 as one of the UK's 'Leading Lawyers', Elizabeth Duncan is a personal injury solicitor who specialises in a number of niche areas, including abuse, sexual assault and CICA criminal injury claims.
Picture of Elizabeth Duncan

Elizabeth Duncan

Identified by the 2022 edition of The Legal 500 as one of the UK's 'Leading Lawyers', Elizabeth Duncan is a personal injury solicitor who specialises in a number of niche areas, including abuse, sexual assault and CICA criminal injury claims.

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