A Norfolk man was sentenced to 16 years for coercing a woman into sex with up to 1000 men over 30 years, with abuse occurring in Thetford Forest and other locations.
Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse Over 30 Years
A man has been sentenced to a minimum of 16 years in prison for forcing a woman to have sex with ‘up to 1,000 men’ over a three-decade period.
While the exact number may never be known, a court heard it could be as many as a thousand men across 30 years.
Rodney Johnston intimidated the woman into participating in various sex acts with men at remote rural spots, hotels, and vehicles, the court heard.
Details of the Abuse
These encounters often lasted for hours and involved as many as 15 men, according to the jury.
The court also heard how Johnston, 67, from Starston in Norfolk, photographed and recorded the abuse during a trial in September where he was convicted, reports the Mirror.
The woman was forced to have sex at ‘dogging sites,’ including in Thetford Forest.
Judge’s Remarks
Judge Alice Robinson described the victim’s impact statement as “harrowing.” The prosecution informed the court that she may have been compelled to have sex with as many as a thousand men, though the actual number may never be determined.
Judge Robinson stated that Johnston, who worked as a carer, had pursued a “predatory lifestyle to further your perverted sexual desires.”
At Norwich Crown Court, the judge noted the victim’s testimony revealed “the severe and lifelong impact” of the abuse.
Evidence of Abuse
Officers discovered over 30,000 images and videos documenting the abuse. The court heard that the woman was compelled to “go out” to have sex with men as often as five nights per week.
“Going out became a byword for her being raped by strangers. This is rape in all but name,” the judge stated.
The victim recounted feeling disgusted after the incidents and said that if Johnston perceived any lack of cooperation, she faced threats or punishment.
Victim’s Statement
In her statement to police, the victim explained how decades of horrific abuse left her feeling “used” and “terrified.”
“I had no voice, no choice,” she said. “I feel anxious about the future, but for the first time in decades I am free.”
Convictions and Trial
Johnston was found guilty of multiple offenses covering a 30-year period, from 1994 to 2024. His convictions include:
| Offense | Count |
|---|---|
| Procuring a woman to have sexual intercourse by threats or intimidation | 3 |
| Causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent | 2 |
| Intimidation of a witness | 1 |
Throughout the 6-week trial, Johnston maintained his innocence, claiming the sexual encounters were consensual. However, authorities argued that evidence supported the woman’s allegations of coercion and exploitation.
Investigation Findings
The court was told Johnston sent mass text messages to men he connected with via adult social networks, promoting sexual encounters with the woman at specific times and locations.
Norfolk Police reported that Johnston dismissed many of these messages as “banter” and the fulfillment of “a fantasy.”
Yet investigators uncovered thousands of additional messages corroborating the victim’s version of events, including communications she shared with a friend about the abuse.
Victim’s Reflection
In a statement issued by police after Johnston’s sentencing, the victim expressed: “I found myself in a situation I never imagined I would be in.”
“What I then went on to endure I would not wish on anybody.”
She characterized Johnston as a monster who treated her as “nothing more than an object.”
“I felt dirty, sick, used, degraded, humiliated, and terrified – but this became my norm.”
“I no longer know who I am,” she said. “Now I must rebuild myself and I often feel lost and unsure where to begin.”
Family Support
The woman’s relatives described themselves as “endlessly proud” of her bravery.
Johnston came to the attention of the police in July 2024 when explicit images were discovered by the woman’s children.
He was arrested after he tried to take the woman out of the country against her wishes but was persuaded to drop her off at a police station.
Future Implications
Johnston was informed that if ever released, he would remain on license for life, be on the sex offenders’ register, and be subject to an indefinite restraining order.
Lead investigator Duncan Woodhams commented: “Today’s sentence is the result of painstaking work due to the sheer volume of evidence involved, and of course the courage of the victim in telling us about what she has endured.”
“We hope she can now take those steps to build her life on her own terms. She has shown remarkable bravery.”
Authorities confirmed they have started an additional investigation targeting other men involved in the abuse who may also face criminal charges.
They stated that law enforcement would focus on determining if any additional crimes had been committed, vowing a comprehensive investigation to hold those accountable.
