'Statue' rapist convicted of 18 sexual offences

Northamptonshire Police investigated a spate of attacks centred on the Cobbler's Last statue in Northampton between 2006 and 2016

A "serial rapist" who preyed on young people gathering at a town centre statue has been convicted of 18 sexual offences.

Alex Stephen Coleman, 34, has become the latest suspect to be dealt with as part of Operation Antigua in Northampton.

Northamptonshire Police had investigated reports of the sexual abuse and rape of teenage girls who gathered at the Cobbler's Last statue between 2006 and 2016.

Det Sgt Colin Bowers said: "Nothing will ever take away what happened to these women but I hope they can feel proud that, by speaking up, they have ensured that Alex Stephen Coleman – a serial rapist and sexual abuser – will be going to prison for a long time."

Coleman, of Redruth Close on Northampton, was found guilty of three counts of rape and six of sexual activity with a child.

He was also convicted of seven counts of sexual assault and two of assault by penetration. He was acquitted of one count of rape.

The jury at Northampton Crown Court took 11 hours to make its decisions after a 13-day trial.

Detectives said a number of people had already been convicted and jailed as part of Operation Antigua, but the case of Coleman was "one of the biggest".

Coleman, described as a "serial rapist and sexual abuser", was convicted of 18 sexual assaults

Northamptonshire Police said Coleman committed the offences against five girls between April 2008 and March 2011 - when they were between the ages of 13 and 17.

During this time, he was aged between 18 and 21.

Det Sgt Bowers, the lead investigator, praised the bravery of the victims for coming forward.

"I am so pleased for the survivors in this case that their abuser has been found guilty and I want to thank them for the support they have given the operation from start to finish," he said.

Det Ch Insp Liz Basham, who oversees Op Antigua, said the police were determined to ensure the voices of the survivors were heard

Det Ch Insp Liz Basham, who led the operation, said: "Tackling violence against women and girls remains a priority for Northamptonshire Police and we will continue working hard to investigate sexual abuse, bring those responsible to justice, and ensure the voices of the survivors are heard."

Coleman will be sentenced at Northampton Crown Court on 29 November.