Rapist Who Identified as Female Sentenced to Life in Prison

Karen White, a 52-year-old who was born male but identifies as female, has been sentenced to life in prison for a string of sexual offenses. The crimes include raping two women, stabbing her neighbor, and sexually assaulting two inmates while incarcerated at HMP New Hall, a women's prison in Flockton, near Wakefield.

White, described as "predatory" and "manipulative," was deemed a "significant risk of serious harm to children, women and the general public" by Judge Christopher Batty at Leeds Crown Court.

White's history of transitioning is complex. While having cross-dressed in the past, she only initiated gender reassignment while in custody. During her time in the B wing of the female prison, White, wearing a wig, makeup, and women's clothing, sexually assaulted two inmates between September and October of last year.

Christopher Dunn, the prosecutor, questioned the sincerity of White's transitioning, citing evidence that suggested White's approach to transitioning was "less than committed." Dunn alleged that White used her transgender persona to gain access to vulnerable individuals for abuse.

Prior to the prison offenses, White was arrested for attacking a 66-year-old neighbor with a steak knife. White threatened to kill the neighbor, accusing them of unwanted advances. Following the attack, two women came forward with rape allegations against White. One victim was raped while pregnant, and the other was repeatedly raped, resulting in internal injuries and fear of future infertility. Both women attempted suicide as a consequence of the rapes.

While on remand, White engaged in further sexual misconduct within the prison, including an incident where she exposed herself to an inmate and made inappropriate comments about sexual acts.

White's history of criminal behavior extends beyond these recent incidents. She has prior convictions for indecent exposure, indecent assault, and gross indecency against young boys.

White, now incarcerated at HMP Leeds, a men's prison, has been sentenced to life with a minimum term of eight years and 116 days. She will be eligible for release on license after serving half of her sentence.

In his sentencing remarks, Judge Batty emphasized White's predatory nature and her ongoing danger to the public.