Charles Isabirye

Charles Isabirye, a 48-year-old man formerly residing on Ratcliffe Road in Loughborough, was sentenced to 17 years' imprisonment at Leicester Crown Court on 22 October 2025, following his conviction for multiple serious sexual offences. The case stemmed from a complex investigation led by Detective Constable Sarah Le Boutillier of Leicestershire Police, who was praised by His Honour Judge Evans for her professionalism amid Isabirye's attempts to discredit her and the victims during the trial.

Isabirye was found guilty by a jury of four counts of rape perpetrated against two victims, in incidents where he sought to dominate all aspects of their lives. The offences occurred prior to the trial, though specific dates were not detailed in the proceedings. Throughout the trial, which took place at Leicester Crown Court the previous month, Isabirye denied the allegations, claiming that the victims had colluded to fabricate the charges against him. He further attempted to shift blame, focusing on perceived unfairness in the prosecution rather than addressing the evidence presented.

In addition to the rape convictions, Isabirye was sentenced for one count of breaching a restraining order and three counts of witness intimidation, all of which the jury upheld. Addressing Isabirye directly during the sentencing hearing, Judge Evans remarked: "You continue to focus the blame for your current predicament on one of the victims, stating that 'If it was not for her, you would not be in prison'. During the trial, you focussed upon the unfairness of the prosecution rather than the witness testimony, cleaving to the notion that the case was closed. You found and saw conspiracies everywhere and painted yourself as the victim." The judge concluded that Isabirye posed a serious risk to women, leading to the imposition of a restraining order prohibiting contact with the victims and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

DC Le Boutillier commended the victims' courage, stating: "I have nothing but praise for the victims in this case, not only for coming forward and reporting what happened to them, but for the bravery they showed in court throughout a lengthy, difficult trial. Isabirye sought to discredit them at every opportunity." The conviction followed two victims coming forward, highlighting the challenges in such investigations. This case was reported by Leicestershire Police on their official website, underscoring the force's commitment to supporting victims of sexual offences.