Kirklees man handed 18 year prison term for multiple counts of rape
The 47 year old was found guilty at trial in June
A Kirklees man has been handed an 18 year prison term after being convicted of multiple counts of rape.
47 year old Stephen Degnan, of Heckmondwike, was convicted of a total of five rapes at Leeds Crown Court at trial in June.
He has also been handed a restraining order, preventing him from contacting the victim upon his release.
DC Isaac Taylor of West Yorkshire Police, who led the investigation, said: “We welcome the sentence imposed by the court on Degnan for what were appalling sexual offences, as reflected in the sentence imposed by the court today."
“The survivor in this case has shown real courage in coming forward and supporting both the police and CPS in bringing this prosecution and then through the trial process. I hope she can take some comfort in seeing Degnan sentenced for this appalling offending,
“We continue to encourage victims of sexual offending to come forwards and contact us, no matter when the abuse took place.
“Specialist safeguarding detectives investigate all reports and can also direct victims to any support services they may need. More information about how to may a report and support services can be found on our website at https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/advice/sexual-assault/rasso-useful-information-for-victims"