Hertfordshire man sentenced to 10 years for rapes and sexual assaults
The 58-year-old will remain on the Sex Offender Register for life.
Last updated 23rd Dec 2025
A 58-year-old man has been sentenced to a minimum of 10 years in prison after being convicted of multiple sexual offences.
Shaun Harris, of no fixed abode, was found guilty following a 10-day trial at St Albans Crown Court.
He was convicted of:
- Two counts of rape
- One count of attempted rape
- Two counts of assault by penetration
Harris received a discretionary life sentence, with a minimum term of 10 years before being eligible for parole.
He will remain on the Sex Offender Register for life and is also subject to a lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO). The order includes strict conditions, such as informing police within three days if he plans to form an intimate relationship.
Detective Sergeant Colin Hutton from the Sexual Offences Investigation Team praised the victim’s courage throughout the criminal justice process.
He said: “Firstly, I would like to publicly commend the victim for her incredible bravery throughout the criminal justice process.
“Harris is a dangerous sexual predator, and I am glad to see that he will be spending a considerable amount of time in prison. The communities where he used to reside will feel safer knowing that he is behind bars.
“We know it can be incredibly challenging to come forward to report incidents of sexual assault. We take reports of sexual offences very seriously and we will do everything we can to ensure that victims feel like their voices are heard and that offenders are brought to justice.
“Anyone wishing to report a sexual assault will always be treated sensitively and with respect by us. Please be assured we have specially trained officers who can help you every step of the way.”
Hertfordshire's Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) provides practical and emotional support for anyone who has experienced sexual abuse or sexual violence.
The centre offers sexual health referrals, forensic medical examinations, and face-to-face support.
Incidents can also be reported online at herts.police.uk/report, through the online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact, or via the non-emergency number 101.