Ipswich man jailed for 12 years for rape conviction
Man found guilty of attacking a neighbour in her home
A 50-year-old man from Ipswich has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for raping a neighbour.
Keith McKenzie, who lived on Bond Street, was convicted of two counts of rape after a five-day trial in February 2026.
The jury at Ipswich Crown Court heard that McKenzie and the victim, a woman in her 20s, lived in the same block of flats but were otherwise strangers.
In the early morning hours, the victim was disturbed by knocking at her door. She called a friend in the same building for support.
After answering the door, McKenzie requested a cigarette which the friend provided before returning to their own flat.
Despite her protests, McKenzie entered the victim's home and committed the assault.
Following the attack, he warned the victim against exposing the crime and was arrested later that morning.
On 28th May 2026, Ipswich Crown Court handed McKenzie a 12-year sentence that will run consecutively with a previous sentence for wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
The court also imposed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and McKenzie was placed on the Sex Offenders Register.
The victim delivered a heart-wrenching statement in court, expressing the emotional turmoil she has experienced since the incident:
“Emotionally, I feel violated, ashamed, and overwhelmed… I have struggled with guilt, even though deep down I know none of this is my fault... I wake up each day carrying the weight of something I never asked for and never deserved.”
Detective Constable Victoria McNamara from the Safeguarding and Investigations Unit, who led the case, commented on the victim's bravery:
“This was a profoundly distressing incident for the victim, who has shown immense courage in coming forward and supporting the investigation.
“What should have been the safest place for her and her child was violated and the impact of that cannot be overstated. Since the incident, the victim has lived in constant fear, struggling with anxiety, sleep disturbance, and a loss of trust. She has spoken about the lasting effect this has had not only on her own wellbeing but also on her ability to feel secure and confident as a parent. No one should have to live with that burden.
“Victims of this nature of offence often carry the effects long after the incident itself. Trauma does not simply end when an investigation begins.
“Our priority has been to treat this victim with dignity, compassion and professionalism, while conducting a thorough and robust investigation and I hope by knowing that McKenzie is behind bars, she is able to move forward with her life.
“Offences of this kind will be taken extremely seriously. If you come forward, you will be listened to and supported.”
Support and resources are available for those affected by sexual violence. Suffolk Survivor Pathway offers multi-agency support at https://suffolksurvivorpathway.co.uk/ .
For more information, visit Suffolk Constabulary's website for guidance on reporting sexual offences. In an emergency, always call 999.