Man jailed for Gosport rape and coercive behaviour

HAMPSHIRE CONSTABULARY have announced that a sex offender from the Isle of Wight has been “sentenced” to a total of fifteen years imprisonment after being found guilty of separate coercive controlling behaviour and rape charges, which occurred between January 2020 and March 2022 against a twenty-five year old female at an address in Gosport.

Twenty-eight year old Connor Richard Barnes was found guilty of these charges on January 18; which followed his jury trial held at Portsmouth Crown Court. He was remanded in custody and was sentenced on Tuesday (March 12); where he was ordered to spend a fifteen year sentence in prison and must furthermore sign the sex offenders’ register for life.

Detective Constable Leanne Boyd commented that this was an “excellent result” and praised this victim for “not only for her bravery in coming forward, but also for continuing to support the investigation throughout.” She hoped that the case result “reflects the seriousness with which police take any report of sexual assault and coercive controlling behaviours”.

The force are urging anyone who has been affected by sexual assault and abusive behaviour of any kind to contact the police by calling 101 where they can speak to an officer ‘in confidence’. Police have released a list of available services and specialist support on their weblink to assist victims who do not have the confidence to talk about their experiences.

Alternatively, readers can contact the “independent charity” Crimestoppers 100% anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 for absolutely free; or via their anonymous online forms which can be found through their website: https://orlo.uk/250kR

PICTURED BY HAMPSHIRE POLICE: Graphic used by force to show all court results including verdict and sentences.