LEE MURPHY SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS IN PRISON FOR DOUBLE RAPE IN MIDDLESBROUGH

A 49-year-old man from Middlesbrough, Lee Murphy, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being found guilty of committing a double rape and assault on a woman. The crimes only came to light following a routine police interaction when an officer observed bruising on the victim’s forehead, prompting further questioning.

The incident took place in Middlesbrough, where Murphy’s brutal acts were revealed during a trial held at Teesside Crown Court. The jury unanimously convicted Murphy of attacking and raping the woman, who cannot be identified for legal reasons. According to court proceedings, the police officer, while initially engaging with the victim about an unrelated matter, noticed the injury and inquired further. The victim disclosed that she had been physically assaulted and forced to engage in sexual acts on two separate occasions. She admitted to feeling too frightened to report the assault at the time, which led to the delay in justice.

Details of the arrest show that when authorities moved to apprehend Murphy, he made attempts to escape by attempting to jump out of a window. Subsequently, he attempted to hide in a storage cupboard, resisting arrest. Murphy has a history of criminal activity, with 39 previous convictions covering 85 offenses. These past crimes include acts of violence, but notably, he had no prior record of sexual offenses. The court also heard that Murphy suffers from a crack cocaine addiction, which is believed to have been a motivating factor behind his violent behavior.

In delivering his sentence, Judge Jonathan Carroll remarked on the deeply concerning attitude Murphy exhibited towards women. He stated, “You are a man who has an entrenched dysfunctional attitude towards women. This sexual violence was as much driven by your need to have power and control over your victim, as the need to have sexual power.” The judge emphasized the predatory nature of Murphy’s actions and his lack of remorse.

Murphy was sentenced to an extended prison term of 20 years, comprising a 16-year prison sentence and an additional four years on an extended license, which he will serve out within the community under strict conditions. Furthermore, he was ordered to registering as a sex offender for the remainder of his life and was subjected to an indefinite restraining order that prohibits any contact with the victim.

Following the sentencing, Detective Chief Inspector Simone Bennett from the Domestic Abuse Unit expressed her condemnation of Murphy’s actions. She stated, “No one should have to suffer such violent and despicable crimes that Murphy committed against his victim. His actions were inhumane and cruel, and I am confident they will have a profound and lasting impact on her life.”

Detective Bennett also praised the victim’s bravery, acknowledging that her decision to come forward and report the crimes was crucial. “She demonstrated immense courage in confronting her trauma and reliving this distressing chapter through the trial. Without her strength, Murphy would not have been convicted of these heinous acts,” she emphasized.

The detective also extended gratitude to the investigative team and the jury for their diligent work, which resulted in Murphy being held accountable for his crimes and receiving a significant custodial sentence.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat violence and sexual crimes in Middlesbrough and underscores the importance of supporting victims of such traumatic experiences.