Businessman Receives Lengthy Prison Sentence for Vicious Baseball Bat Assault and Rape
A businessman from Birmingham has begun a substantial prison term after being convicted of a horrifying attack on a sex worker in Walsall. Simon Tang, aged 56, was sentenced to nine and a half years in jail for brutally raping the victim following a violent assault with a baseball bat.
Details of the Disturbing Incident in a Walsall Alleyway
The attack unfolded after Tang arranged a transaction with the woman for twenty pounds. Previously considered a safe client, Tang lost his temper during the encounter. He retrieved a baseball bat from his vehicle and struck the woman repeatedly on her head and legs.
He then forced her into non-consensual sexual acts while resting the bat on her back. After the assault, Tang drove the victim to a nearby location and inquired if she intended to report him to the authorities. She initially stated she would not but later courageously contacted the police.
Police Investigation and Court Proceedings at Birmingham Crown Court
Officers arrested Tang at his residence on Weoley Castle Road in Birmingham on the same day as the attack. They confiscated the baseball bat from his car as evidence. During police interviews, Tang provided a false narrative, alleging self-defence and claiming he only used the bat to recover his money.
However, his account was contradicted by evidence from his mobile phone, which contained videos of interactions with sex workers. Tang pleaded guilty to assault and possessing a weapon but denied the rape charges. A jury at Birmingham Crown Court found him guilty on two counts of rape.
Impact on the Victim and Judicial Condemnation
The victim described suffering physical injuries, nightmares, and severe anxiety following the assault. She turned to alcohol and antidepressant medication to cope. While relieved by Tang's arrest, she found the subsequent investigation and court process overwhelming.
Judge Dean Kershaw strongly criticised Tang's misogynistic attitudes and sense of entitlement, noting Tang believed he was owed sex in exchange for payment and displayed minimal remorse. The judge highlighted that Tang had led a double life, with his family completely unaware of his criminal actions.
Sentencing and Legal Consequences for the Offender
Tang was declared a dangerous offender by the court. His sentence mandates that he serve two-thirds of the nine-and-a-half-year term before being eligible for release. Additionally, he received an extended three-year license period and will be placed on the sex offenders register for life.
His defence barrister argued the incident was isolated and pointed to Tang's reputation as a considerate client among sex workers. However, the court emphasised the severity and premeditated nature of the violence, underscoring the profound breach of trust and safety.
