A man has been sentenced to prison for attempting to rape a woman after stalking her through a city and attacking her in a secluded area.
Thomas Dodds, 22, targeted the victim near Central Station in Newcastle, tracking her for about half a mile as she walked home alone in the early hours. When they reached the Gateshead end of the High Level Bridge, Dodds assaulted her from behind, trying to rape her. Despite her anxiety about being alone, the victim bravely defended herself by putting her fingers in his mouth during a struggle that left him injured, according to Newcastle Crown Court.
The incident occurred around 4am as the victim made her way back home after a night out in Newcastle city center. Dodds, a stranger to the victim, followed her closely before attacking her near the bridge, where she managed to prevent him from removing her clothing.
Police identified Dodds through CCTV footage showing him running to keep up with the victim. His DNA was found under her fingernails and on her clothes. Dodds, who admitted to the attempted rape charge, received a 63-month prison sentence with an additional two-year extended license period. He must also register as a sex offender indefinitely and is subject to a restraining order.
Judge Tom Moran commended the victim for her courage in resisting Dodds’ assault and highlighted the premeditated nature of the attack. He noted the prolonged struggle and Dodds’ persistence in pursuing the victim over a considerable distance. Dodds, who had no prior criminal record, claimed the incident was out of character and attributed it to mental health issues and a difficult upbringing.
