BARNARD CASTLE MAN JAILED FOR RAPE AFTER PLEA OF GUILTY

A man named Graham Andrew Henderson, aged 56, has been sentenced to three years in prison for a rape he committed. The victim described him as being “like an animal possessed,” and the judge, Ray Singh, convicted Henderson after he pleaded guilty to the charge of rape. During the sentencing, it was noted that Henderson had apologized unreservedly to his victim and showed full remorse. The court was informed that Henderson had taken responsibility when police arrested him, which was considered a commendable act. The victim’s impact statement revealed ongoing struggles with trust and emotional distress following the assault, stating, “During early weeks after the rape I struggled to eat and sleep. I still am struggling. I now don’t trust men and am always worried they are always after only one thing. I am unsure whether I’ll ever be able to have a successful relationship again. No one deserves this.” Stephen Hamill, Henderson’s defense lawyer, stated that Henderson had shown substantial remorse and that his actions were out of character. Henderson had been employed as a baker for 12 years and expressed remorse for the potential loss of his job. Henderson, who resides in Barnard Castle, pleaded guilty to the rape, was subjected to a restraining order, and was placed on the sex offenders’ register.