Today in Court William Henry Kelly from Peel was found guilty of 10 counts of rape and 4 counts of indecent assault and 2 counts of assault against three women. Mr Kelly has been sentenced to 18 years in prison.
The Court has heard how Mr Kelly was in relationships with the women he raped and indecently assaulted over a period of time. Detective Inspector Michelle McKillop who led the investigation said, “This is one of the most significant cases that has been brought before the Manx Courts in some time. The seriousness of these offences cannot be under-estimated and the damage that has been caused to the victims will remain with them for the rest of their lives. During the investigation it was evident that there was vast similarity reported by the victims regarding the method Mr Kelly used to initiate a relationship and manipulate his victims. He adopted a very controlling and intimidating manner during the relationships to the point he was able to rape and indecently assault his victims and then continue to go about his business, leaving them feeling responsible for his actions in some way and blaming themselves to a varying degree. Mr Kelly used predatory, intimidating and controlling behaviour to make his victims feel trapped and vulnerable. He is a dangerous and prolific sex offender and perpetrator of domestic abuse. Today was a welcome verdict for the women he has abused and a positive message to anyone else out there who may be suffering in silence. It is never too late to escape an abusive relationship or report sexual assault to the police; People should not fear that they will not be believed; the police will investigate and can support victims in many ways. I would also like to take this opportunity to thanks Victim Support and the prosecution team, Richard Butters and Hazel Carroon for their assistance and support they have given to all witnesses in this case.”
Anyone who wishes to report this type of assault and abuse to the police, or simply ring for advice, should contact the Public Protection Unit at Police Headquarters on 631212.
Photo - William Henry Kelly.
