A MAN has been sent to prison for eight and a half years after admitting to a rape in the Scarborough area.
Phill Blunt, 39, from Scarborough, was sentenced at York Crown Court yesterday (Tuesday, September 8), for an offence that took place more than two years ago, North Yorkshire Police said.
The force said he had been due to stand trial in July but changed his plea to guilty at the last moment.
Up until then, the victim was preparing to give evidence at court.
As well as the custodial sentence, Blunt was made subject to a restraining order to protect the victim in the future and placed on the Register of Sex Offenders indefinitely.
Detective Constable Jack McCabe, of the Scarborough and Ryedale Safeguarding Investigation Team, said: "The survivor of this sickening offence has been nothing but courageous during this long-running investigation and court proceedings.
"Her strength and determination have shone throughout, and I truly hope she can now begin to build a happier future now that Blunt is behind bars for a considerable length of time."
"As for Blunt, at least he finally admitted his guilt and spared the victim the additional trauma of reliving the rape during a trial.
"Thankfully, victims can provide evidence by video link these days, and defendants are often screened from victims’ view if attending court in person.
"Victims of sexual crimes also have their anonymity protected for the rest of their lives by law.
"Ultimately, this case shows that those who commit rape do face the consequences of their despicable actions, and that victims receive professional support and care throughout from the police and our partner agencies.
"If you or someone you know needs our help, please come forward.
"We are here for you."
North Yorkshire Police issued this advice and provided information for anyone reporting rape and sexual abuse - no matter how long ago it happened.
- Make a report via our website or call 101 and speak to the Force Control Room.
- If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, always dial 999 for an emergency response.
- IDAS is an independent charity that supports victims of sexual violence and abuse regardless of whether you have reported it to the police.
- Anyone concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline for advice on 0808 800 5000. Adult victims of non-recent sexual abuse can also get in touch for support.
- Childline is available for young people on 0800 1111 or at Childline
- Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) - If you prefer not to go direct to the police and are not in immediate danger, can contact North Yorkshire’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), on 0330 223 0362 or visit acerhousesarc.co.uk
- You can also contact the Supporting Victims in North Yorkshire at supportingvictims.org or call 01609 643100.
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