Gurdev Singh Rathore

The sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl in Southampton on 26 December 2024 involved two men, including Gurdev Singh Rathore, who exploited the vulnerability of the young victim. The incident unfolded after the girl met Rathore and Damian Andre Martin while walking along St. Mary Street in the St Mary’s area.

Following an initial rape and assault by Martin, the girl was taken to an address on Chapel Road, where Rathore, aged 50 from Milton Road, sexually assaulted her and caused her to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity. The abuse was reported to police the next day, on 27 December 2024, leading to arrests and a detailed investigation by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Western Child Abuse Investigation Team.

On 25 April 2025, at Southampton Crown Court, Rathore pleaded guilty to sexual assault and causing a female aged 13 or over to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity. He was sentenced to four and a half years in prison by His Honour Judge Christopher Parker, who condemned the pair's actions as causing 'unimaginably horrific' suffering to the victim and her family. The judge emphasised the terror experienced by the 13-year-old during her detention and sequential abuse.

Rathore will be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and the Sex Offender's Register for life. Investigator Rebecca Stevens noted the complexity of the case and the strength of the evidence, which compelled the guilty pleas. She described Rathore's behaviour as part of an 'incredibly predatory' scheme, ensuring his lengthy incarceration to prevent future offences.

This case highlights the rapid escalation of danger faced by vulnerable children, with police commending the victim's bravery in coming forward, which was crucial to securing justice against Rathore and his accomplice.