LEE METCALF AND SHOCKING SEXUAL ASSAULT IN DURHAM

A man from Durham has been convicted of a disturbing sexual assault and false imprisonment after a harrowing incident involving a teenage girl in a bed and breakfast in the area. The court proceedings revealed a distressing account of manipulation, threat, and violence committed by Lee Metcalf, who was 38 years old at the time of the crimes.

The case emerged after Metcalf met his young victim through social media platforms. Over a period of online communication, he groomed her, gaining her trust before persuading her to meet him in person. The teenage girl, only 16 years old at the time, agreed to meet with him, which led to her being invited to stay at a bed and breakfast where Metcalf was lodging.

On the day they met, the two settled in to watch Netflix together in the room. However, the situation quickly took a sinister turn. As the girl prepared to leave, Metcalf became uncooperative. In a display of controlling behavior, he forcibly prevented her from leaving by throwing her shoes out of the window, effectively trapping her inside his room. As the tension escalated, Metcalf issued threats to her, creating an atmosphere of intimidation and fear.

Despite her terror, the teenage victim managed to seize an opportunity when Metcalf fell asleep. During this window, she escaped from the room and managed to contact the police, who promptly intervened. Her courage in escaping and reporting the incident was commended by authorities.

Following his arrest, Lee Metcalf, of Tynedale Crescent, Penshaw, in the Weardale region near Durham, was charged with one count of rape and another of false imprisonment. He maintained his innocence, claiming that the sexual encounter was consensual. However, the jury at Newcastle Crown Court found him guilty of both charges on March 31.

The court heard the full details of the case, and Metcalf was taken into custody. His sentencing took place before Judge Amanda Rippon, who handed down a severe penalty. Metcalf received a custodial sentence of nine years in prison, with the requirement to serve two-thirds of that period before being eligible for release. Additionally, he will serve a four-year extended licence period following his release.

In addition to his imprisonment, Metcalf was subjected to strict legal restrictions. He was issued a lengthy restraining order aimed at safeguarding his victim and was placed under a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, both of which will remain until further notice. Furthermore, he is mandated to register as a sex offender for life.

The investigation was led by Detective Constable Nick Moses of Northumbria Police’s Safeguarding Department. In a statement, he described Metcalf’s actions as a “terrifying ordeal” for the victim and emphasized the importance of the conviction.

“Metcalf preyed on a teenager who was two decades his junior,” said Det Con Moses. “I absolutely welcome this sentence and hope it provides his brave victim with some comfort in knowing he’s now behind bars. I want to praise her for her bravery and composure during the investigation and trial. Because of her courage in coming forward, a dangerous man is locked up and will be unable to hurt anyone else.”

He also issued a warning to others, highlighting that consenting to meet or go back to someone's residence does not imply consent to sexual activity. “No one should ever have to endure this type of assault, and support is available from our officers and numerous charities and partners who work closely with us.”