HARTLEPOOL MAN SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS FOR RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT

Anthony Lawton, the Hartlepool Rapist, convicted of raping and sexually assaulting a woman, has received a sentence of 10 years in jail, with an additional two years on license.

Anthony Lawton, 34, from Hartlepool, perpetrated rape and sexual abuse against his victim over an eight-year duration.

He exerted control over the victim’s movements and activities by restricting her access to family members, surveilling her social media accounts, and seizing her phone.

In 2021, the victim courageously reported the incident to the authorities, prompting an investigation by the Cleveland authorities’s Domestic Abuse Unit (DAU).

Anthony Lawton was later apprehended and indicted for rape, sexual assault, and controlling and coercive behaviour. He refuted the allegations; but, subsequent to a trial, the jurors adjudicated him guilty.

He attended Teesside Crown Court on Wednesday, December 18th, for sentencing, during which the judge characterised it as one of the most egregious cases he has encountered.

Anthony Lawton was sentenced to 10 years in prison with two years on licence and he was also given an indefinite restraining order banning him from contacting the victim.

Investigating officer DC Neale said: “Anthony Lawton subjected his victim to years of horrific abuse which no doubt will have a lasting impact on her for the rest of her life.

“It was made even worse by the fact that Anthony Lawton denied his crimes and cruelly tried to discredit the victim, causing further trauma and distress.

“I’d like to thank the victim for her bravery and for her unwavering support throughout this extremely difficult process. I hope she can find some peace knowing Lawton is serving a significant prison sentence.”

It’s never too late to report an incident to police; we have specially trained officers who will support you throughout. You can report at any time of day or night online via the Cleveland Police website or by phoning 101.