Wolverhampton, England – Helen Kempster’s tragic death in June 2022 has led to justice being served as Rahul Sharma, the man responsible for her rape and murder, has been sentenced to a minimum of 28 years in jail. The brutal and sustained attack took place in the early hours of June 16, 2022, on grassland near Wolverhampton city center. Despite Sharma’s denials, forensic evidence linking him to the crime ultimately led to his conviction.
The court heard how Sharma viciously attacked Ms. Kempster, dragging her to the ground, punching, kicking, and throttling her. He also raped her and inflicted such severe injuries that more than 15 of her ribs were broken, a brain hemorrhage occurred, and a tooth was knocked out. Despite Sharma’s claims of innocence, DNA evidence incriminated him, leading to his guilty verdict.
After a three-week trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court, Sharma, of Hordern Road, was convicted of murder and rape. Sentencing him to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 28 years, the judge described Sharma as extremely dangerous. Sharma has also been placed on the sex offender register for life, ensuring that he remains off the streets for the foreseeable future.
Detective Chief Inspector Jim Colclough, who led the murder investigation, emphasized the extreme brutality of the attack on Ms. Kempster, highlighting the extensive injuries she suffered that ultimately claimed her life. Colclough expressed satisfaction in bringing Sharma to justice and ensuring that Ms. Kempster receives some form of closure.
The sentencing of Sharma serves as a reminder of the importance of thorough investigations and the pursuit of justice for victims of violent crimes. The community can find solace in knowing that Sharma will face the consequences of his heinous actions for the next several decades, providing a sense of closure and justice for Ms. Kempster’s loved ones.