Martin Hancill

Martin Hancill, a 40-year-old man from Corfe Mullen in Dorset, was sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment at Bournemouth Crown Court on 9 December 2025 following his conviction for rape and sexual assault.

The offences occurred on the evening of 24 October 2022, when Hancill attended the victim's address and raped her. The victim, a teenage female, was known to Hancill, and the pair had been communicating via text messages in the days prior to the incident. The assault was reported to Dorset Police shortly after it happened, leading to Hancill's arrest within hours.

During police interview, Hancill denied the charges. However, a thorough forensic examination of the scene and analysis of phone messages between Hancill and the victim provided compelling evidence that the sexual assaults had taken place. This evidence formed a key part of the prosecution's case at trial.

Hancill was charged and stood trial at Bournemouth Crown Court, which commenced on 8 September 2025. The jury unanimously found him guilty of both rape and sexual assault. In addition to the custodial sentence, Hancill was placed on the sex offenders' register for an indefinite period.

Detective Inspector Rich Barnett of Dorset Police commended the victim's bravery in reporting the incident and supporting the investigation. He stated: 'As a result of her courage and resilience, and support from her family, we were able to compile evidence and hold Martin Hancill accountable for his appalling and contemptible actions on the evening of Monday 24 October 2022.' The investigation was described as detailed and extensive, highlighting the role of witnesses who provided evidence in court.

The case underscores the importance of thorough police work in sexual offence investigations, with Dorset Police emphasising their commitment to supporting victims through specially trained officers.