A man has been found guilty of raping and sexually assaulting a 13 year old girl in Totton

Denis Huel Kadena, 34, was convicted of raping and sexually assaulting the girl in his van on Hill Street in Totton on 14 September 2022. He had pleaded not guilty, but the jury at Southampton Crown Court delivered the guilty verdict today (24 March) following a four-day trial.

The victim had reported that she was walking back to school along Testwood Lane last year when an unknown man offered her a lift back to school. However, instead of taking her back to school, Kadena drove her to a secluded location on Hill Street where he raped her.

Kadena, who lives in Yorke Road, Southsea, has been remanded in custody until his sentencing hearing on 12 May.

The local police have praised the victim for her courage throughout the investigation and trial, and have also commended the local community for their support and the valuable evidence they provided.

Detective Inspector Claire Shawley, who led the investigation, said, “We are pleased with the result from court today, and I would like to commend the victim for her courage throughout the investigation and trial. This conviction would also not have been possible without the help of the local community, who provided valuable evidence.”

Shawley also reassured the public that the police take allegations of serious sexual assault and rape seriously, and that victims who report such incidents will be believed and provided with specialist support from specially trained officers.

The conviction of Kadena sends a strong message that sexual assault and rape will not be tolerated, and that the justice system is committed to holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. It is important for victims of these crimes to know that they are not alone and that support is available to help them through this difficult time.