Man jailed for attempted rape and sexual assault
A 59-year-old man has been sentenced to four years and eight months in prison after being found guilty of attempting to rape and sexually assaulting a woman in Newton Abbot.
Graham Ford, of Rydon Gardens, Newton Abbot, was found guilty by a jury at Exeter Crown Court on 28 March of attempted rape and sexual assault.
Ford was also placed on the Sex Offenders Register. He appeared for sentence in front of Judge Stephen Climie on Monday 13 May.
The offences relate to an incident which occurred in May 2021.
The jury heard how Ford approached the victim and sexually assaulted her to which she immediately challenged him. Ford then approached the woman again and attempted to rape her.
The victim left the area and immediately called police.
Officers attended the scene and Ford was arrested whilst the victim was supported by specially trained officers.
Detective Constable Kathryn Jago said: “I wish to commend the victim for her courage throughout the investigation and thank her for reporting the attack upon her to Devon and Cornwall Police and for supporting our enquires.
“Ford has continually denied responsibility for his actions, and it is the strength and bravery shown by the victim which has resulted in the conviction and subsequent sentencing.
“I would also like to thank the jury for their diligent attention and recognising this incident as an unprovoked and unwelcome attack upon the victim
“Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls is a priority for Devon and Cornwall Police. I urge members of the public to report to us where they have been victims of crime. Your report will be treated with the importance, care and professionalism shown in this case”
Support available
If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.
You can also report information and crimes on our website.
Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
There are lots of organisations and support agencies available across Devon and Cornwall that can help provide support.
For more information on rape and serious sexual assault and the support services available, please visit our support pages by clicking here.
Advice and support is also offered by our partner agencies:
• National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999
• Victim Care Unit (Devon and Cornwall) 01392 475900
• Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) 0300 3034626
Victim care
If you have been affected by crime, please visit https://orlo.uk/cOqV8 to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system. You can also call Victim Support on 08 08 16 89 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.
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