A Scarborough man has been jailed today for the ‘horrendous and degrading’ rape of a woman.
Al Winfindale, 39, of Ewart Street, Scarborough, pleaded guilty to rape before the start of his trial.
He raped the woman in Scarborough in 2022.
The victim, who was known to Winfindale, has been left feeling violated, degraded and completely worthless following the rape.
More than a year later she still remains shaken by the memory of the incident and still feels unable to tell her loved ones what happened to her.
Winfindale was sentenced to five years and five months at York Crown Court today (26 July).
He was also placed on the sex offenders’ register for the rest of his life.
Investigating officer, Detective Constable Nicholas Burton of North Yorkshire Police, said: “I would like to pay tribute to the victim who has shown incredible strength at both reporting this horrendous crime and supporting this investigation.
“We urge any victim of sexual assault or rape to please come forward, no matter when it happened, you will be listened to.
“We know it can be difficult, but we have specially trained officers who will support you. As part of our support we can put you in touch with a range of support services that can help you.”
Organisations that provide support and advice for victims of rape can be found on the North Yorkshire Police website.