2015: RAPIST JAILED OVER ATTACKS ON WOMAN WHO REGARDED HIM AS AN UNCLE
A man convicted of raping two women who were vulnerable has received a six-and-a-half-year prison sentence.Bolton Crown Court was told that pensioner Ernest Saunders exploited a woman with learning difficulties.
Prosecutor Geoff Whelan explained that the woman had known Saunders for several years, but he assaulted her sexually on two separate occasions after she visited his home in Thaxted Place, Bolton, on March 27 and 29.
The court also heard that Saunders' second victim visited him on March 20 seeking a place to stay after leaving hospital.
Mr.
Whelan stated that the woman fell asleep on his sofa and only woke up to find him engaging in sexual assault.
When she protested, Saunders apparently said, "I'm sorry, I was only having a little play," and then begged her not to report him to the police.
She later confided in a police community support officer about what had happened when she was found distressed at the bus station.
Saunders admitted to two counts of rape and one of sexual assault during the trial.
The court was told he has prior convictions related to sexual offenses involving underage girls.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Graeme Smith ordered Saunders to be registered as a sex offender for life.
After the sentencing, Detective Constable Laura Hughes commented that the victim had called Saunders "uncle," despite lacking any familial relation.
"Saunders exploited his relationship with this vulnerable woman, leading her to believe they were in some kind of relationship," she said.
"The relationship was manipulative and abusive, allowing Saunders to use her as he wished.
His exploitation of her vulnerability caused her to endure multiple traumatic experiences." She emphasized the sentence was well-earned, adding, "This sends a clear message that we will do everything possible to bring to justice those who sexually exploit vulnerable individuals and to safeguard those in need of protection."
