A Salford man who lured a teenager to his flat then tied her to a bed by her ankles and raped her has been sentenced today.
Christopher Holmes, 44, of The Edge, off Clowes Street, Trinity, was sentenced to six years in prison, after being found guilty of rape at an earlier hearing.
Homes met the 18-year-old woman, who identity is being withheld for legal reasons, during a night out at the Bijou night club on Chapel Street on August 5, 2012.
The woman left the nightclub with Holmes, who she had not met before, and walked to his apartment nearby, believing she was going to a party.
Once at the apartment she became unwell, and at some point in the early hours Holmes tied her to the bed and raped her.
The woman awoke in the morning naked, with her ankles still restrained. Homes loosened the ankle restraints and called her a taxi before she left and contacted police.
Detective Constable Emmett from the Serious Sexual Offences Unit said: “This was a particularly distressing situation for the young woman as she cannot remember going to Holmes’ apartment.
“Holmes preyed on the vulnerability of this young woman and carried out a wicked act to satisfy his own needs.
“She awoke in the morning extremely confused and frightened not knowing exactly what had happened to her.
“I would like to commend the victim on her bravery throughout the investigation and trial. I hope this conviction brings some comfort to her and her family.
Det Cons Emmett has urged anyone who may have been victim of any sexual abuse to come forward.
“We treat rape and sexual assault extremely seriously and would urge anyone who has been a victim, under any circumstances, to come forward and speak to police.
“We work closely with St Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester to give victims the support they need.”
Victims can call Greater Manchester Police on 101, or alternatively people can refer themselves to St Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0161 276 6515.
Image courtesy of publik15, via Flickr, with thanks.
