Man who attempted to rape woman while she slept is jailed

A man who sexually assaulted and attempted to rape a woman as she slept has been jailed.

The woman woke to find Brian Rowbotham performing a sexual act on her at a property in New Mills. He then attempted to rape her.

The attack has left the woman suffering from anxiety and depression and struggling to sleep.

In a victim impact statement, she said: “Ever since I became a victim of this awful crime I have experienced so much pain and loss in all areas of my life.

"I grieve for the girl I no longer am, and I grieve for how much it has taken away from me.”

The woman reported the matter to police immediately, and Rowbotham was arrested.

The 37-year-old, of Queen Street, Rhyl, was subsequently charged with attempted rape, sexual assault and assault by penetration.

He denied the offences but a jury saw through his lies and he was convicted after a trial at Manchester Crown Court. He appeared at the same court on 25 April when he was jailed for eight years. He was also ordered to sign the sex offenders register.  

Detective Constable Danielle Lynch, who led the investigation, said: “Rowbotham violated this woman in an horrific way, preying on her when she was asleep for his own sexual gratification.

“His appalling actions on this night have impacted on every aspect of her life, taking away her confidence and security and leaving her feeling anxious and depressed.

“However her courage in coming forward and reporting this matter shortly after it occurred allowed us to secure crucial forensic evidence which proved that Rowbotham committed these offences.

“I’d like to commend her for her bravery and support throughout this case. I hope that the prison sentence handed to Rowbotham will now allow her to look to the future as she continues to rebuild her life.”