Man given lengthy sentence for 'appalling' rape of woman in Leeds after jury 'saw through his lies'
A man has received a “lengthy” jail sentence for “appalling” non-recent rape offences in Leeds.
Craig Middleton, 53, from Wirral, was jailed for 10 years at Liverpool Crown Court on Wednesday (January 21) after being found guilty of two counts of rape.
The offences occurred in 2009 at two properties in Leeds against a woman aged in her 20s, but it formed part of a Merseyside Police investigation.
Detective Inspector Peter Rexwinkel said: “I hope this sentencing reassures our communities that we take all reports of sexual offences extremely seriously, no matter how long ago they occurred.
“I want to praise the victim in this case who had to undergo the added trauma of a trial after Middleton denied the offences.
“Thankfully a jury saw through his lies and he is now starting a lengthy prison sentence for his appalling offences.”
He added: “We urge anyone who is a victim of any form sexual abuse to please report this to police, as we have specially trained officers who will treat you with sensitivity and compassion.
“We take all such reports extremely seriously, and in addition, work with partner organisations such as Victim care Support Service and RASA who are there to support victims of this crime.”
To report a sexual offence you can call 101 where you will be spoken to by specially trained officers or you can pass information to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency, always call 999.