Man jailed for ten years for rape

A rapist who faked messages from his victim to try and portray her as a liar has been jailed for ten years.

Josh McDougal, from Stockton, raped a woman at his home in July 2020 and an investigation was subsequently launched by Stockton CID.

The 32-year-old was arrested and charged with rape but he denied the offence. Following a trial, a jury found him guilty of rape.

However, whilst awaiting sentencing, McDougal called the police to say he received some letters containing WhatsApp messages which he claimed said the victim lied about the rape.

He then claimed armed men had stolen the letters from his property but that he had made copies.

McDougal was arrested and when interviewed about the letters, he admitted he created them in a bid to avoid being sentenced for the rape. He was then charged with perverting the course of justice.

McDougal appeared at Newcastle Crown Court on Monday 24th June where he was handed a 10-year prison sentence for rape and perverting the course of justice.

A restraining order was also put in place banning McDougal from contacting the woman and he was put on the sex offenders register for life.

Investigating officer DC Ward said: “This was a truly horrific incident made worse by the fact that McDougal denied his crimes. He then caused further distress by cruelly trying to discredit the victim. His malicious lies made an already traumatic ordeal even worse.

“I’d like to commend the victim for her bravery and for her unwavering support throughout the process. McDougal is now serving a significant prison sentence where he can no longer harm anyone else.”

You can report an incident to us at any time of day or night online via the Cleveland Police website or by phoning 101.