A rapist – who also tried to strangle his victim – has been sentenced to 14 years behind bars.
Thomas White, 36, raped his victim multiple times last year at an address in Gateshead.
He also forced his hands around the woman’s throat and dragged her around the property by her neck, before physically assaulting her by slapping her in the face.
Police were called and immediately arrested White in connection with the incident.
The next day, White, of Gateshead, was charged with a number of offences related to the abuse.
In November, he stood trial at Newcastle Crown Court where, as part of the evidence, the jury was shown footage of the abuse taking place which was captured by the victim’s video doorbell.
Following a seven-day trial, White was found guilty of nine offences, including two counts of rape, two counts of intentional strangulation, sexual assault, and assault.
After the trial concluded, White was remanded into custody.
And today (Friday), he attended the same court where he was given a 14-year prison sentence. He will also serve a further five years on an extended licence once he is released.
The victim described in court how the abuse had ‘permanent implications’ on her life. She said: “The long-term implications this has had on me seem endless. I became so low I even tried to take my own life.
“I struggle to get out of bed, struggle to leave the house and struggle to socialise. I live every day in fear.
“I still wake up having nightmares. I hope one day I can feel safe and happy again and regain the life he took from me.”
White will also spend the rest of his life on the Sex Offenders’ Register and was handed a lifelong restraining order to protect the victim.
In charge of the case was Detective Constable Jennifer Robinson, of Northumbria Police’s Rape Investigation Team (RIT).
Speaking after White’s sentencing, she said: “White is a dangerous man who has shown absolutely no regard for this woman’s feelings or the lasting effects this type of abuse can have.
“No-one should ever have to experience what she has been through, and her bravery in the decision to ring the police that day means she can now see her abuser behind bars – and think about moving forward and rebuilding her life.
“I hope this sentence has given her the much-needed closure she deserves, and also that it urges others who may be suffering in silence to reach out and report abuse to us.”
She added: “This result is an example of what we can do when we support survivors of sexual offences and hold their abusers to account.
“If you’ve been a victim of sexual abuse, please know that we can help you; report to us today.”
Anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse of any form can contact police by sending a direct message on social media, or by using the ‘Report’ forms or live chat function on the Northumbria Police website.
For those unable to contact police in this way, please call 101.
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