A man from Hull displayed a chilling grin in his police mugshot after being arrested for raping a woman shortly after she gave birth, in a case that has shocked the local community.
Eight-Year Sentence and Lifetime Restraining Order
Michael Wilkinson, aged 30 and residing on Willerby Road in Hull, has been sentenced to eight years in prison following his conviction for one count of rape at Hull Crown Court. In addition to the custodial sentence, the court imposed a lifetime restraining order against Wilkinson, prohibiting any future contact with the victim.
Predatory Attack During Vulnerable Time
The court heard distressing details of how Wilkinson sexually assaulted the woman soon after she returned home from hospital, while she was still recuperating from childbirth. Despite denying two charges of rape, Wilkinson was found guilty of one count after a week-long trial, while being acquitted of the other.
Detective Constable Jen Rix, from Humberside Police's Protecting Vulnerable People Unit, described Wilkinson as a "predator" who exploited the victim during "one of the most vulnerable moments in her life." The court publicly commended the victim for her "extraordinary courage" in reporting the crime to police in August 2025.
Police Praise Victim's Strength
Wilkinson was promptly arrested following the report but continued to refute the allegations. The victim informed authorities that she had been manipulated and coerced by Wilkinson before the rape occurred.
Detective Constable Rix stated: "We want to recognise the extraordinary courage shown by the victim throughout this investigation and the trial. Her strength has ensured that a dangerous individual has been brought to justice."
"This was an appalling and deeply violating offence," Rix continued, "and Wilkinson targeted the woman at one of the most vulnerable moments in her life. His behaviour was predatory, callous, and showed complete disregard for her wellbeing, dignity, and safety."
Sentencing Details and Support Information
Wilkinson was formally convicted of one count of rape and sentenced to eight years imprisonment at Hull Crown Court on Thursday, 5 February. The following day, the same court issued the lifetime restraining order as additional protection for the victim.
Humberside Police have reiterated their support services for victims of similar crimes, stating: "If you are in danger and cannot talk on the phone, call 999 and listen to the questions from the operator. If you can, cough or tap on the handset to reply. You can also press 55 on your handset to make yourself heard, and this will transfer your call directly to the police."
The police further emphasized that numerous support agencies and charities are available to provide independent specialist advice, guidance, and emotional support to victims of sexual violence and domestic abuse.
