ASHLEY IDDON SENTENCED FOR RAPE IN PRESTON AFTER DEFENDING HIS ACTIONS
A man identified as Ashley Iddon has been handed a lengthy prison sentence after committing a disturbing sexual assault on a woman while she was asleep in Preston.The offence, which has deeply affected the victim and the local community, has now resulted in a conviction and a significant period behind bars.
Ashley Iddon, aged 29, from Well Orchard, Bamber Bridge, was found guilty of raping a woman during a period when she was most vulnerable, sleeping at her residence.
The incident was serious enough to warrant an extensive sentence, and Iddon’s actions did not end there.
Following the assault, he continued to harass the victim by bombarding her with numerous messages.
During these communications, Iddon engaged in victim-blaming, some of which explicitly attempted to justify his reprehensible conduct by shifting blame onto her.
The authorities moved swiftly to arrest Iddon, and during interviews with his colleagues at work, he made the startling admission of guilt.
He told a workmate that 'she made me do it,' revealing a troubling attitude towards the crime he committed.
This statement indicated not only his guilt but also a disturbing lack of remorse.
At Preston Crown Court, Iddon appeared before Judge Heather Lloyd, who was presiding over what was initially supposed to be a trial.
Recognizing the severity of Iddon’s actions and the risk he posed to women, the judge sentenced him to a total of 14 years in prison.
The custodial period was split into an 11-year prison term, complemented by a three-year extended license, which means that even after serving his sentence, Iddon would remain under supervision for additional years.
Furthermore, Iddon was ordered to be listed on the Sex Offenders Register for life, reflecting the gravity of his offence.
An indefinite restraining order was also put into place, preventing him from approaching the victim or any other women.
In the aftermath of sentencing, the victim shared her feelings publicly.
She expressed relief and a sense of closure, saying she was glad she could finally move forward with her life.
She also noted that the ordeal had caused her considerable distress over the years, and she found comfort in knowing Iddon was now behind bars.
Her family’s peace of mind was also highlighted, as they could rest assured that justice was served.
DC Rebecca Pugh, of South CID, commented on the case, emphasizing the dangerous nature of Iddon’s character.
She stated, “Iddon is a dangerous man who has warped and appalling attitudes towards women.
That is demonstrated by his attempts to justify his abhorrent actions to work colleagues by blaming the victim.” Pugh further expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, noting that the sentence properly reflected the seriousness of the offence.
She also highlighted that Iddon would remain under supervision even after his release, ensuring continued monitoring.
The officer concluded by reaffirming the police’s commitment to safeguarding women and girls from abuse and violence.
She hoped that this case would encourage other victims to come forward, trusting that their reports would be taken seriously and that the police would work tirelessly to bring offenders to justice.
