Fareham Rapist Jailed for 9 Years After Brutal Bridge Attack
John Sommerville Taylor Horne, 39, was sentenced to nine years in prison after admitting to raping and assaulting a woman in her 20s on a footbridge near Fareham train station.
The Attack
The victim told police she left the Slug and Lettuce pub around 1am on 19 March. While walking along West Street, a stranger approached her. He threatened, assaulted, and raped her on the footbridge over Western Way.
Investigation and Court Hearing
Hampshire Constabulary’s specialist Operation Amberstone unit launched an extensive investigation. They identified Horne, from Broadacre Place, Fareham, who later pleaded guilty at Portsmouth Crown Court on 25 April.
On Wednesday 25 May, Judge Shepherd handed down a nine-year prison sentence and imposed lifelong notification requirements on Horne.
Victim’s Courage and Judge’s Verdict
“I know for a fact that I will come out of this stronger and although I will never be back to my normal self, I will get better because of the amazing support around me from friends, family, work colleagues and the police. I cannot thank them enough,” the victim said in a powerful impact statement.
Judge Shepherd described Horne’s crimes as a “prolonged and sustained course of sexual violence” that robbed the victim of a safe, carefree youth. He criticised the attacker’s cowardice, saying:
“You have caused every young woman then and now to look over their shoulders, to take precautions, to change behaviours. But it’s not women that need to change their behaviour, it is attackers such as you.”
Police Praise Victim’s Bravery
Detective Chief Inspector Roger Wood said:
“This was a truly awful crime that has had a significant impact on the woman involved. Her bravery in speaking out led to Horne being jailed.” “No one should ever fear walking the streets. Police will never tolerate this kind of assault.” “Operation Amberstone tirelessly targets rapists and supports survivors. Horne is an evil, predatory man, and we hope the community feels reassured he is behind bars.”
Support and Reporting
- If you have experienced sexual abuse, contact police confidentially on 101.
- Not ready to report? Support services are available independent of police.
- For advice and help, visit Hampshire Police Rape & Sexual Assault Support.
- Use the Home Office StreetSafe tool to report local safety concerns like poor lighting or intimidating behaviour.
