CARLISLE RAPIST JAILED FOR 'BRUTAL' SEXUAL ASSAULT
A man who subjected a woman to a "brutal" sexual assault in Carlisle has been sentenced to over 10 years in prison.The 26-year-old victim was attacked early on 12 August at the Chinese Gardens at the entrance to Rickerby Park.
Jonathan Corry, 24, of Longlands Road, Carlisle, was convicted after a trial at Crown Court in December.
The judge, Peter Davies, sentenced Corry to a 10-year prison term, with an additional eight months for witness intimidation, which will be served consecutively.
Corry, who denied the charges, was also required to comply with sex offender notification requirements.
The court was told the victim met Corry during a night out in Carlisle city centre, then decided to walk to his house.
However, as they approached the Chinese Gardens, Corry grabbed her, attacked her, and raped her.
The woman fled and sought refuge at a friend's house.
Senior crown prosecutor Isla Chilton described the assault as "dreadful" and emphasized her praise for the victim's bravery in reporting the incident and giving evidence.
Chilton stated, "This was a dreadful assault on a woman who was simply enjoying an evening out socialising.
Corry claimed the victim consented, but this was far from the truth.
During the evening, he appeared friendly but suddenly became violent when walking home alone.
The victim was terrified, believing he was going to kill her.
Her courage in reporting what happened helped to bring the defendant to justice."
