Detective Praises Victim’s Courage After Violent Rapist Handed a 25-year sentence

A detective has praised a victim’s courage after a violent and dangerous rapist was sentenced to 25 years yesterday (Monday 22^nd May).

 

James Walton, 32, entered the woman’s home uninvited in August last year, then dragged his victim into her living room where he attacked her and strangled her. 

 

He then trapped her in her own home where he raped her three times over a 12-hour period, force-fed her by pushing food into her injured mouth, and made her clean up her own blood from the attack.

 

After standing trial, Walton was convicted of three rapes, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, false imprisonment, intentional strangulation, harassment and witness intimidation.

 

Detective Constable Joanne Shepherd said: “Walton had a history of violence and dominating behaviour towards women and had not long been released early from a five-and-a-half-year sentence when he went on to attack his victim.

 

“He even tried to intimidate her after she came to police to report the attack, in order to stop police action.  

 

“The woman’s courage during this investigation has been crucial to ensuring a charge, the guilty verdict and the substantial sentence handed down yesterday, which should safeguard other women from similar attacks. 

 

“I cannot praise her enough for her strength throughout our investigation, the trial and yesterday’s sentencing.

 

“I hope that now he is behind bars for a prolonged period of time, she can begin to rebuild her life.

 

“This sentence should send a clear message to victims that violence against women will not be tolerated.  If you have been a victim of domestic violence or sexual violence we would encourage you to contact us and report it. 

 

“You will be listened to, believed and supported through every step of the investigation and the criminal justice process.”

 

Walton was handed a 19-year prison term with an extended licence period of six years.  He will be subject to sex offender notification requirements indefinitely.