CHRISTOPHER HARTLEY SENTENCED FOR RAPE AND STRANGULATION IN DONCASTER AND DERBYSHIRE
In December 2020, a man named Christopher Hartley was sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being convicted of heinous crimes involving two teenage girls he met through the popular dating app Tinder.Hartley's actions, which included rape, strangulation, and violence, have shocked the local community and highlighted the dangers associated with online dating.
Hartley, aged 22 at the time of sentencing, committed these disturbing acts in different locations, taking advantage of isolated areas to carry out his assaults.
His first attack occurred in June 2018 near his home in Adwick-Le-Street, Doncaster.
He lured a 16-year-old girl on a walk with her dog, convincing her to join him in a remote part of the countryside.
Once there, Hartley demanded she engage in sexual activity.
When she refused, he resorted to violence, grabbing her in a headlock and squeezing her neck with force before raping her.
The victim was left terrified, fearing for her life during the ordeal.
The second incident took place in June 2019, when Hartley picked up an 18-year-old woman in his car.
He drove her to a secluded area in Derbyshire, where he proceeded to sexually assault her inside his vehicle.
During this attack, he held her around the neck and pushed her, exerting control and dominance over her.
Both victims endured traumatic experiences, with fears that they might not survive the assaults.
Following an extensive eight-day trial in November, Hartley was found guilty of seven serious offences, including rape, sexual assault, and attempted strangulation with the intent to commit rape.
His conviction underscores the severity of his crimes and the danger he posed to the community.
On Monday, December 7, Hartley was formally sentenced to 17 years in prison.
The court also imposed an extended license period of four years, meaning he will be under supervision for a significant time after his release.
Additionally, he will be registered as a sex offender for life, and lifelong restraining orders have been issued to ensure the safety of the victims and prevent any contact with them in the future.
Hartley's case serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with online interactions and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals from predatory behavior.
