MICHAEL COLLINS AND SHOCKING RAPE IN MANCHESTER
In a disturbing case that has left a lasting impact on the victim, Michael Collins was convicted of sexually assaulting and raping a woman in her own home in Manchester.The incident, which unfolded in 2016, stemmed from online communication on the popular dating platform Plenty of Fish.
Collins, who is now 28 years old, had initially made contact with the woman through the website and subsequently arranged to visit her residence.
According to court reports, Collins believed he was there for a date, and the two spent time together watching television inside the woman's home.
During the course of the evening, they shared a kiss, which the court confirmed was consensual.
However, the situation took a dark turn when Collins attempted to inappropriately touch the woman, first trying to put his hand under her breast.
The woman firmly refused, explicitly stating that she did not want to engage in sexual activity.
Despite her protests, Collins continued to touch her, disregarding her clear boundaries and wishes.
The court heard that Collins then proceeded to sexually assault and rape the woman, actions that caused significant psychological trauma.
During the trial, Collins was heard to have remarked dismissively, 'For f**k sake, that took me an hour to get that out of you,' revealing a troubling attitude towards her refusal.
He also repeatedly accused her of 'p*****g him off' and called her 'lazy,' comments that perhaps reflected his attitude during the assault.
The victim has since suffered severe psychological consequences, including increased anxiety, and has been compelled to leave her home in the aftermath of the incident.
Her ordeal highlights the profound and lasting impact such assaults can have on victims, affecting all aspects of their lives.
During the sentencing hearing held at Minshull Street Crown Court, the judge heard detailed accounts of the assault.
Collins' defense attorney, Richard Orme, attempted to contextualize his client’s background, describing Collins as coming from a 'family-focused' Irish community.
It was also noted that Collins had moved to Manchester with his parents in search of a fresh start in the UK.
Despite these arguments, Recorder Abigail delivered a firm sentence, imposing an eight-year prison term on Collins.
The judge emphasized that the core issue was Collins' clear intent to engage in sexual acts, regardless of consent, which was explicitly not given.
Recorder Abigail stated, 'It was your intention to have sex, the consent was entirely irrelevant,' underscoring the gravity of the offense.
Furthermore, the court acknowledged that although Collins may have shown signs of maturity, his persistent belief that his actions were acceptable indicated a continued danger.
As a result, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for life, reflecting the seriousness of his crimes.
Collins, whose address is listed as Craig Road in Gorton, Manchester, was found guilty on multiple counts, including two counts of rape, sexual assault, and causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent.
The conviction confirms the court’s recognition of the severity of his offenses.
In a statement following the case, Detective Constable Martyn Bateman of Greater Manchester Police’s City of Manchester CID emphasized the importance of justice for victims of sexual offenses.
He said, 'Despite being told no, Collins forced himself upon this woman to satisfy his sexual desires.
Sexual offences often have a lifelong impact on victims but, hopefully, today’s result will provide her with a level of closure.' DC Bateman also expressed hope that the case would reaffirm public trust in law enforcement’s commitment to thorough investigations and justice, ensuring offenders face appropriate consequences for their actions.
