Rapist jailed more than two decades after his crime

Friday, 19 December 2025 08:30

Simon de la Haye. Photo supplied by Jersey Police.

Simon Paul de la Haye has been jailed for 12 years by Jersey's Royal Court for raping a teenage girl 23 years ago.

The 54-year-old was found guilty by a jury at his trial in October.

He refused to leave his prison cell to appear in the Royal Court on Thursday (18 December) and was sentenced in his absence.

His victim reported the offence, which happened in November 2002, in May 2023. The rape resulted in a pregnancy and miscarriage.

Passing sentence, Bailiff Robert MacRae, said the defendant harassed, manipulated and threatened his victim.

"[He] lied to her repeatedly and intimidated her. The manipulation and threats culminated in the defendant raping his victim, as a consequence of which she fell pregnant and subsequently miscarried."

De La Haye has also been given a lifetime restraining order and put on the sex offenders' register for 20 years.

States of Jersey Police says the case shows that 'time is no barrier to justice'.

Detective Sergeant Alasdair Castle from the Criminal Investigations Department says this conviction sends a clear message that survivors of sexual offences will be listened to, believed, and supported.

"I wish to personally thank the victim for having the trust and confidence in us to investigate their case and remain patient throughout the criminal justice process.

"I would also like to recognise the commitment and dedication of the investigating officer, DC Tamas Barta and the Law Officers' Department for obtaining this successful outcome for the victim."

People who have a crime to report are encouraged to get in contact with the police or seek help.