COCAINE-ADDICTED MAN JAILED FOR RAPING SLEEPING WOMAN IN TRAVELODGE
A man named James Cox was convicted of raping a sleeping woman at a Travelodge hotel in Liverpool.The incident occurred the morning after he had consumed alcohol and cocaine.
The court heard that Cox, aged 29 and residing on Sherwood Avenue in Rhyl, North Wales, was staying at the hotel when he woke up to find another guest, who was asleep, and then proceeded to kiss her neck and forcibly remove her pyjama bottoms, raping her.
The victim was unaware of the assault until she woke up and discovered what had happened.
Officers attended Cox's room after the incident was reported, but initially received no answer.
When the door was finally opened by staff, police found Cox with a deep wrist laceration, which he had inflicted on himself using a shard of glass.
Cox was then taken to hospital for treatment.
His criminal history includes offences such as drunk and disorderly behaviour, resisting arrest, public order offences, and possession of cannabis.
Cox admitted to the charge of rape.
He appeared via video link at HMP Liverpool, visibly emotional, and was sentenced to five years and three months in prison.
The judge ordered Cox to serve two-thirds of the sentence before eligible for release.
The court acknowledged his long-standing cocaine addiction and recent efforts to abstain from drugs.
The judge emphasized the profound and lasting impact of the crime, stating that he would have to live with the shame for the rest of his life.
The sentencing was accompanied by statements highlighting the seriousness of the offence and the offender's history of substance abuse.
