Family Vows to Fight for Rapist's Release

The family of Peter Watch, 26, who was sentenced to 12 years in prison for rape and other sexual offenses, has declared they will spend "every penny" to clear his name.

Watch, of Amesbury Road, was found guilty of rape, sexual assault, two counts of assault, and putting a person in fear of violence. The court heard that he had assaulted women he met on dating websites and engaged in obscene sexual acts.

Despite denying all charges, Watch was sentenced to 12 years with an extended sentence of four, meaning he will spend four years on licence after his initial sentence. He must serve at least eight years before parole can be considered.

Following the verdict, Watch's father, William, stated, "I will spend every penny I have to help him. It's all down to that Jimmy Savile, courts are now too quick to listen to these accusations and innocent people like my son are suffering. He's no angel, but this isn't fair on my boy."

Mr. Watch further emphasized the toll the case has taken on his family, stating, "The stress on me and my wife has been huge. I'm so run down, I've not been able to work, and what people do not realize is we've got the sentence as well as Peter."

Detective Constable Paul Barry, who led the investigation, highlighted the seriousness of the offenses: "This conviction follows a protracted inquiry involving Peter Watch who has met three women over dating websites and committed serious sexual assault offenses against them, which include rape. Hampshire Police will proactively investigate all reports of sexual and physical abuse which are initiated by offenders over the internet."