Dangerous Sex Offender Sentenced to Life in Prison

A 42-year-old sex offender, Anthony Bassett, has been sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of raping a "stranger" in Wellingborough. Bassett will serve a minimum of 86 months before becoming eligible for parole.

Detective Constable Victoria Thomas described Bassett as "dangerous" and stated that his "horrific" offending had been recognized with the life sentence.

Bassett, from Midland Road, Wellingborough, was found guilty of rape and two other sexual offenses following a trial at Northampton Crown Court in January. He had been on bail for previous rape and sexual offenses when he committed the attack in July 2023.

Police described Bassett's actions as "calculated and predatory," stating he approached his victim under the guise of "helping" him. Det Con Thomas commended the victim survivor for their bravery throughout the investigation and trial.

"Anthony Bassett is a dangerous man, and I am so pleased that the severity of his horrific offending has been recognized with a life sentence," said Det Con Thomas.