Staffordshire Rapist Receives 13-Year Sentence for Prolonged Abuse Campaign
A man has been convicted and sentenced for raping and sexually assaulting a woman in a Staffordshire town over a distressing five-year period. Robert James Hough, aged 56 and residing in Newcastle-under-Lyme, carried out these horrific attacks on the same victim between 2016 and 2021, committing rape and sexual assault on two separate occasions.
Denial and Conviction in Court Proceedings
Despite consistently denying the offences, Hough was found guilty by a jury earlier this year following a thorough trial. The verdict was delivered at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on January 29, 2026, where he was convicted of both rape and sexual assault charges.
Subsequently, on Friday, April 10, 2026, Hough appeared again at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court for sentencing. The court handed down a substantial 13-year prison term, ensuring he will be incarcerated for his crimes. In addition to the jail sentence, Hough was subjected to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which imposes strict conditions to protect the public from further harm.
Police Commend Victim's Bravery and Encourage Reporting
A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police confirmed the sentencing details, emphasizing the severity of the case. Detective Constable Josie Frost, a member of the force's dedicated rape and sexual offences (RASSO) team, praised the victim's courage in coming forward to report the abuse.
"I would like to commend the outstanding bravery of the victim in coming forward and telling us what happened," stated DC Frost. "Hough consistently denied the offences, but a jury found him guilty earlier this year. We remain committed to protecting victims of rape and sexual assault across Staffordshire and I would encourage anyone who has been a victim to come forward and talk to us."
The police's statement underscores their ongoing efforts to support survivors and hold perpetrators accountable, reinforcing the importance of reporting such crimes to ensure justice is served.
